The recent defeat of Real Madrid against PSG in the Club World Cup has caused a lot of noise within the club. Beyond the score, there are real concerns about the performance of some key players. Florentino Pérez and the sports management are considering major changes to avoid repeating mistakes.
The defeat that exposed the weaknesses
Real Madrid entered the match with the confidence that always characterizes it, but reality was different. The team's performance was weak and revealed serious problems in the defense. Antonio Rüdiger made a fatal mistake that cost a goal and ended up being decisive for the defeat.
This mistake wasn't an isolated accident, but the last straw in a glass full of doubts about his physical and mental condition. Injuries and lack of fitness have affected the German, who lost the trust of the coaching staff and the connection with his teammates.
Rüdiger, an increasingly likely goodbye
Antonio Rüdiger, who arrived as a key reinforcement and leader of the defense, is now on the edge. His contract ends in 2026, but the club wouldn't mind facilitating his departure if an attractive offer appears. Saudi Arabia has been showing interest for some time, and everything indicates that it could be the center-back's destination.
Florentino Pérez knows that Madrid can't have a player out of shape and with a bad attitude, and is open to offers. The idea is to clean up the locker room and renew the defense with footballers who have hunger and commitment.
The white defense in search of stability
With the possible departure of Antonio Rüdiger, Real Madrid is already thinking about his replacement. Dean Huijsen, a young prospect, is on the list to take that spot in the back line. However, the choice of the center-back partner isn't clear.
Éder Militão returns after a tough injury, but his physical condition still raises doubts. Raúl Asencio, another option, hasn't convinced the technical management. The club needs to make quick decisions to prevent this area from continuing to be a problem.
The challenge for Florentino Pérez and the sports management
Florentino Pérez doesn't want to repeat mistakes. After the humiliation against PSG, the message is clear: Real Madrid must live up to its history. That's why the sports management, led by Xabi Alonso, is analyzing which players can stay and who must leave.
The club is betting on youth, commitment, and quality to compete at the highest level. If Rüdiger leaves, new opportunities will open up to rebuild the defense and strengthen the team. Everything must be done quickly, because the season doesn't wait.