In the sweltering heat of Miami, Real Madrid kicked off a new chapter under Xabi Alonso with a 1-1 draw against Al-Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup. But beyond the scoreline, something more important was happening — a team adjusting, growing, and setting the tone for what’s to come.
After the final whistle at the Hard Rock Stadium, cameras caught a telling moment in the tunnel: Dean Huijsen approaching Arda Güler with a few words that spoke volumes. “We’ve gone from less to more… your entrance changed everything, brother,” he said, recognizing Güler’s huge impact off the bench.
And he wasn’t wrong.
Güler lit up the second half. His movement, vision, and control brought Real Madrid to life after a slow start. It’s clear the Turkish midfielder is ready for more responsibility — and he’s making his case with every minute he gets.
Xabi’s Early Blueprint
In his pre-match press conference, Xabi Alonso hinted at the journey ahead: “We’ve been building for days now. Soon things will fall into place — we’ll recover better, hold possession, and stay compact as a team. The players are hungry. We’re closing one era and opening a new one. Tomorrow begins the real test.”
The draw may not have been the dream start, but it’s already offered Alonso a closer look at what he has — and what this Real Madrid side can become. There were flashes of promise, especially in the second half when the energy shifted. The new ideas are still taking root, but the signs are there.
Miami: Madrid’s Second Home
This isn’t just a sporting trip for Real Madrid — it’s a strategic move. North America, especially the U.S., remains a key market both on and off the pitch. Miami, with its electric atmosphere and loyal fanbase, once again became a warm home for Los Blancos. And for Alonso, it’s the ideal launchpad.
The Club World Cup is more than a tournament — it’s a test bed. It’s where rotations happen, lineups settle, and roles evolve. And based on their opener, some players are already making strong cases for bigger parts in Alonso’s vision.
Next Stop: Pachuca
There’s little time to dwell. Real Madrid faces Mexican side Pachuca on Sunday in their next group-stage match. With no room for slip-ups, Alonso and his staff will be looking to fine-tune the XI and continue building chemistry. It’s early days, but the foundation is starting to form.
And if Arda Güler keeps shining, it might not be long before he moves from super-sub to starter.
