The countdown to the 2025 Club World Cup is officially on, and Real Madrid has entered a new era full of excitement—though not without internal tension. The tournament, set to take place in the United States from June 14 to July 13, will be the first major challenge for Xabi Alonso as head coach of the Spanish giants, following his appointment as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor.

Among the standout reinforcements joining Alonso in this historic campaign are young center-back Dean Huijsen and experienced English right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will be officially presented this Thursday at the club's training facility in Valdebebas. His signing was finalized at the end of May after his contract with Liverpool expired. He joins Real Madrid on a six-year deal, running through June 2031.

Florentino Frustrated by the Timing of Alonso’s Arrival

While Xabi Alonso's unveiling was full of smiles and optimism, not everything went smoothly behind the scenes. According to El Confidencial, club president Florentino Pérez was not entirely on board with Alonso taking charge right before such a high-stakes competition.

Florentino’s initial plan was for Alonso to join the team after the tournament, during the preseason, allowing him to start fresh without immediate pressure. The Club World Cup, in Pérez's view, posed a considerable risk that could negatively impact the early stages of the coach's tenure.

To bridge the gap temporarily, Pérez considered Santiago Solari, the club’s Director of Professional Football and a trusted figure at Madrid. However, the Argentine reportedly declined the offer, causing visible frustration within the club's leadership. Solari was also offered the position of women's team coach, but he turned that down as well.

Despite the circumstances, Xabi Alonso showed confidence and determination. “I feel this is the right moment. It's an opportunity to speed up the process and fight for another title,” he stated during his presentation.

With a star-studded squad, a new manager at the helm, and sky-high expectations, Real Madrid heads into the Club World Cup looking to add yet another trophy to their collection. The Alonso era is about to begin—and though internal tensions remain, the quest for global glory takes priority.