Xabi Alonso Shakes Things Up at Real Madrid with Last-Minute Tactical Switch Ahead of Club World Cup – Mbappé Reportedly Unhappy
Just one day before the start of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso made a surprising tactical change that caught fans and players off guard. He redefined the roles of young Turkish talent Arda Güler and superstar Kylian Mbappé for their opening match against Al-Hilal. This unexpected decision reportedly created internal tension, particularly with Mbappé, and raised questions about Alonso’s long-term vision for the team.
After Carlo Ancelotti departed to take charge of Brazil’s national team, Alonso’s arrival was highly anticipated. At 43, he was hailed for his success at Bayer Leverkusen, leading them to an unbeaten Bundesliga title in 2023-24. As he steps into a high-pressure role at the Bernabéu, Alonso is expected to deliver quick results—especially after a trophyless 2024-25 season despite the headline-grabbing signing of Mbappé.
The tactical shake-up saw Güler, who had struggled to find consistent playing time under Ancelotti, positioned deeper in midfield—similar to the role Luka Modrić once excelled in. Alonso reportedly sees Güler as a creative orchestrator who can shape attacks from deep, aligning with the strategic style Alonso implemented at Leverkusen.
Meanwhile, Mbappé, who prefers playing on the left flank, was asked to operate more centrally or on the right. This shift aims to fix a recurring problem: both Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. often crowd the same left side, weakening Real Madrid’s attacking structure. Alonso’s flexible formation—alternating between a 4-4-2 and a 3-4-1-2—is designed to spread play using full-backs like new signing Trent Alexander-Arnold, creating room for Güler and other central playmakers.
However, reports suggest Mbappé is not pleased with his new role. Having scored 31 goals in his debut La Liga season and claimed the European Golden Shoe, he’s said to be concerned that playing away from his favored position could reduce his goal-scoring chances. His dissatisfaction poses a challenge for Alonso, who must manage a squad filled with star egos while delivering results. The club’s leadership, especially Florentino Pérez, is reportedly demanding immediate success.
The timing of the change—just three training sessions before the tournament—adds risk. Real Madrid’s group includes Al-Hilal, CF Pachuca, and FC Salzburg, with tougher opponents like Manchester City or Bayern Munich expected in later rounds. If Alonso’s gamble pays off, it could solidify his authority; if not, it may fuel early criticism.
For Arda Güler, this moment presents a massive opportunity. Injuries and limited appearances have hampered his progress, but Alonso’s belief in him—reportedly dating back to his Leverkusen days—could signal a breakthrough. Güler will face stiff competition from Jude Bellingham and potentially River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono, while also stepping into Modrić’s long-shadowed role.
As Real Madrid kicks off their Club World Cup campaign, all eyes are on Alonso’s leadership. Can he balance big personalities, innovate tactically, and meet sky-high expectations? One thing is certain—his bold decisions have already set the stage for an intense and unpredictable tournament.