Real Madrid have made a decisive move: Xabi Alonso will take charge of the team at this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. The club and the manager have agreed that the new era begins immediately, with no interim period or transitional coach. Alonso assumes full control at a tournament deemed crucial by club president Florentino Pérez and his board—not only for its prestige as the inaugural expanded edition but also for its massive financial reward of nearly €150 million.

This firm stance was established last week during a meeting in which Madrid made it clear: “This starts at the World Cup.” The club saw no logic in sidelining their future manager while an interim coach like Santiago Solari, who lacks the same experience, led the squad in a tournament of such magnitude.

Madrid’s packed calendar has forced a mid-season-style managerial transition. Ancelotti departs, and Alonso steps in—without pause or preparation time. The Spanish tactician now faces a daunting debut: rebuilding on the go, managing a squad plagued with injuries and fatigue, and working with several players who are unlikely to stay beyond the summer.

To complicate matters, Alonso will have almost no time to train with the full team before the Club World Cup, as many players will be away on international duty. Nevertheless, he is expected to begin laying the groundwork for his system, potentially implementing a five-man defense earlier than anticipated.

The Club World Cup marks the beginning of a demanding new chapter—one in which Xabi Alonso’s leadership, adaptability, and long-term vision will immediately be put to the test.

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