Real Madrid have officially named their 34-player squad for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, marking the beginning of Xabi Alonso’s managerial tenure at the club. With a mix of seasoned stars, fresh signings, and promising academy talent, the squad reflects both continuity and renewal as the team heads to the United States for the expanded tournament.
Tournament Overview
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will take place in the United States from June 14 to July 13. Real Madrid, placed in Group H alongside Al-Hilal, Pachuca, and Red Bull Salzburg, begin their campaign on June 18 against Al-Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Full Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers:
Thibaut Courtois
Andriy Lunin
Fran González
Sergio Mestre
Defenders:
Dani Carvajal
Eder Militão
David Alaba
Antonio Rüdiger
Ferland Mendy
Trent Alexander-Arnold
Lucas Vázquez
Fran García
Dean Huijsen
Diego Aguado
Jacobo Ramón
Youssef En-Nesyri
Manuel Asencio
Fortea
Midfielders:
Luka Modrić
Jude Bellingham
Eduardo Camavinga
Aurélien Tchouaméni
Federico Valverde
Arda Güler
Dani Ceballos
Chema
Víctor Muñoz
Mario Martín
Forwards:
Kylian Mbappé
Vinícius Júnior
Rodrygo
Endrick
Brahim Díaz
Gonzalo García
Key Storylines
Xabi Alonso’s First Challenge:
This is Alonso’s first competitive outing since taking over from Carlo Ancelotti. Known for his tactical acumen and ability to integrate youth, the Club World Cup provides an early opportunity to stamp his philosophy on the team.
New Signings Take Center Stage:
Trent Alexander-Arnold joins the team from Liverpool and is expected to feature prominently. His presence adds attacking depth from full-back. Center-back Dean Huijsen, signed from Bournemouth, also makes the squad and could feature alongside Rüdiger or Militão.
Mbappé and Endrick Debuts:
The tournament will mark the official Real Madrid debuts for Kylian Mbappé and Endrick, who have been the subject of intense media attention. Both are expected to be key players in the front line.
Modrić’s Final Chapter:
Veteran midfielder Luka Modrić is included for what is likely his final tournament with the club, as reports indicate a move to AC Milan is imminent. The Club World Cup could serve as a fitting farewell for one of Real Madrid’s modern legends.
Youth Well Represented:
Several Castilla players—including Fran González, Gonzalo García, and Mario Martín—are included, highlighting the club’s long-standing tradition of promoting talent from its academy.
Tactical Expectations
Early training sessions suggest Alonso may lean toward a flexible 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation. Bellingham, Valverde, and Camavinga could form a dynamic midfield core, while the trio of Vinícius, Mbappé, and Rodrygo provides a lethal attacking threat. Alexander-Arnold’s role in providing width and creativity from the right flank will be closely watched.
Group Stage Outlook
Real Madrid are favorites to top Group H, but opponents like Al-Hilal and Pachuca bring experience and continental pedigree. Progression to the knockout rounds will require sharp performances, especially given the congested summer calendar.
With a blend of world-class stars, high-profile signings, and promising youth, Real Madrid are well-positioned to contend for another global title. For Xabi Alonso, the tournament is both a test and an opportunity—to begin his reign with silverware and to build momentum ahead of the 2025–26 season.
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