As Real Madrid kicked off its first week of pre-season under Xabi Alonso, all eyes are already on the upcoming Club World Cup. Despite the absence of several international players and long-term injuries, the new head coach from Tolosa is wasting no time—he already has a clear vision for his starting eleven in the big games.

On Cadena SER’s show El Larguero, Manu Carreño revealed what is likely to be Alonso’s preferred lineup. As expected, Thibaut Courtois remains the undisputed No. 1 in goal.

The backline will see notable changes. Trent Alexander-Arnold, newly signed from Liverpool, will take over at right-back. On the left, Álvaro Carreras—whose arrival will be confirmed after the tournament—is set to start. In central defense, Dean Huijsen is expected to be paired with either Éder Militão or Antonio Rüdiger.

Midfield will be a blend of physicality and finesse. Aurélien Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham will be joined by Franco Mastantuono, the prodigy from River Plate, who is scheduled to join in August but is already being lined up for a starting role.

Up front, the plan is pure firepower: Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé will form a terrifying partnership, bringing pace, flair, and goals.

Rodrygo, Camavinga, Carvajal, Mendy, and Güler are all notable absentees from this projected eleven—highlighting the incredible depth and quality at Alonso’s disposal. With this evolving 4-4-2 formation, Xabi Alonso is clearly aiming not just to compete, but to dominate Europe.

********************************************************

You can now download the Madridista News App for free on the Apple Store and Google Play.

You can follow us on Facebook here.

You can follow us on X (Twitter) here.                                                                    

You can follow us on Instagram here.

You can subscribe to our YouTube channel here.

You can follow us on Telegram here.

You can follow us on TikTok here.

You can join our WhatsApp channel here.