Real Madrid’s shocking 4-0 collapse at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final has sparked a wave of criticism—both from the public and behind closed doors at the club. At the center of the storm are two of the team’s biggest stars: **Vinícius Jr.** and **Kylian Mbappé**, who are being scrutinized not just for poor performances, but for a perceived lack of effort, professionalism, and leadership during a critical match.
Observers and pundits noted how **Vinícius**, usually known for his energy and flair, appeared disconnected and sluggish throughout the match. His body language suggested frustration and disinterest, and he offered little in terms of defensive support or offensive spark. His current slump in form is now becoming a growing concern at the club, especially considering his importance to the team’s attacking structure.
**Mbappé**, who was expected to be the talismanic figure in Madrid’s frontline, has come under fire for showing minimal willingness to help out defensively. Multiple instances from the match show him walking back while PSG counterattacked with ease. For a player of his stature, his apparent lack of commitment to the team’s overall balance is seen as unacceptable—especially in high-stakes matches.
This defeat, which saw Real Madrid completely dismantled by a motivated and tactically disciplined PSG side, has exposed far more than just tactical flaws. According to internal sources, the real issue runs deeper: a **dressing room fractured by egos, a lack of collective identity, and players more focused on individual moments than team objectives**.
Head coach **Xabi Alonso**, despite the crushing loss, continues to enjoy the support of the board. The club hierarchy understands the immense challenge he has inherited—managing global superstars, reshaping a tactical identity, and restoring a winning culture. But patience won’t be unlimited. The team’s inability to show unity or fighting spirit has prompted club officials to plan **closed-door meetings with senior players** and key figures, aimed at **directly confronting issues of ego, complacency, and attitude**.
With the **summer transfer window open until early September**, the board is now quietly evaluating its options. If harmony and professionalism do not improve soon, changes in the squad are not off the table. While no one expects major upheaval yet, some within the club are open to **moving players on—even big names—if they prove incompatible with Alonso’s team-first vision**.
There is, however, a ray of hope. Defenders **Éder Militão** and **Dani Carvajal**, both recovering from injuries, are expected to return soon. Their leadership and work rate could help restore stability to the back line and potentially set a better example for younger or less disciplined teammates.
Still, Militão’s post-match comments were a reality check. The Brazilian admitted that the squad lacked “intensity” and “desire” against PSG—two qualities that define successful teams and that were glaringly absent in Madrid’s performance.
As the pressure mounts and fans voice growing frustration, the message inside Valdebebas is clear: **Real Madrid cannot afford passengers. Superstars must act like leaders, not liabilities.** The road ahead for Xabi Alonso will be defined not just by tactics, but by his ability to **rebuild unity, discipline, and purpose in a squad that currently looks lost**.
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