Now I Know Certain Things for Sure”: Xabi Alonso Signals Change After Real Madrid’s Club World Cup Humbling
Following a crushing 4–0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal in New Jersey, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso didn’t deflect — he delivered a clear and sobering message: things must change.
Dominated from Start to Finish
From kickoff, PSG took control, scoring early and never letting Real Madrid settle. In his post-match comments, Alonso was brutally honest:
“The start made a huge difference. PSG are at an elite level. We’re just getting started. We need to keep calm and keep working.”
Though the tournament is not the main prize, the defeat carried weight. For Alonso, it was more than a bad night — it was a wake-up call.
“Today’s loss is valuable. It shows what we still need to improve. We’ve been competing with little training. We’ll take a break now, but return in four weeks.”
End of One Chapter, Start of Another
Alonso made it clear that this defeat marks a turning point:
“This championship told me many things. I leave with clarity. We’ll begin the 2025–26 season differently. It’s a new stage.”
His remarks suggest significant changes ahead — both tactically and in terms of personnel.
Saying Goodbye to Two Club Veterans
Amid the disappointment, Alonso honored two long-serving players — Luka Modrić and Lucas Vázquez — who are moving on from the club.
“It’s not the farewell we wanted, but I tried to make sure they enjoyed their final moments here. I’m thankful for everything they’ve given Madrid.”
Modrić will join AC Milan after a legendary spell in Madrid; Vázquez’s future destination is still undecided.
Reinforcements Incoming
Alonso didn’t mention specific names, but he left little doubt that the summer will be active in the transfer market:
“We didn’t discuss squad changes during the tournament, but we’re always evaluating. There’s definitely room to improve.”
The club is expected to focus on bolstering midfield depth, full-back positions, and possibly attack — especially with questions surrounding Rodrygo’s future.
Taking Responsibility
Alonso admitted he got some things wrong, particularly his tactical approach:
“I made a mistake with the lineup — too many attackers. It’s our first loss, but not the last. We have to learn and accept it.”
While Alonso has already delivered trophies in his debut season, the loss is a reminder that Real Madrid still has work to do to reach the elite tier.
What’s Next?
Despite the setback, Alonso’s words struck a hopeful tone:
“We must be critical, but not let this defeat weigh us down. It’s time to reset.”
With the 2025–26 season approaching, Real Madrid fans can expect a revamped squad and a re-energized approach under Alonso — a manager who’s clearly not afraid to learn, adapt, and evolve.
