The new Real Madrid have already set things in motion, with Xabi Alonso as the main figure on the bench. The former midfielder returns to Bernabéu with the mission of changing the recent dynamic. Florentino Pérez didn't hesitate: he wanted Xabi as a key piece to open a new era.
The season has started with excitement, but also with many demands from the very first minute. The first challenge isn't small: to win the Club World Cup, a tournament that brings together the champions from each continent. The goal is clear, although the path won't be easy for anyone.
Xabi Alonso and the challenge of the Club World Cup
FIFA has redesigned the format of this tournament to turn it into a top-level competition. The best in the world fight for a symbolic but highly desired crown. Xabi Alonso wants his new group to make a mark from the very beginning.
However, the debut wasn't the dream one for Real Madrid, which didn't manage to win in its first match. The draw against Al Hilal left cold feelings and many doubts in the creative department. The playing system still needs important adjustments.
Signings in the starting eleven, but with unexpected absences
In that first match, the Basque coach went with the new players: Huijsen and Arnold made their debuts as starters. Despite their decent performance, the match was flat and lacked offensive rhythm. The big absence, however, drew all the attention.
The main figure of the day wasn't on the field for a single minute. Much was expected from him, but he didn't appear by surprise. Hours later, it became known that he was ill and not in condition to play with the rest.
Kylian Mbappé, hospitalized due to acute gastroenteritis
Xabi Alonso explained after the match that the star forward hadn't been feeling well since hours before the game. However, the concern grew as the day went on. Finally, Real Madrid confirmed his hospitalization due to severe gastroenteritis.
Mbappé spent the entire day under medical observation at a center near the team's base. The news was a cold shower for the coaching staff and for Madridist fans. Fortunately, the Frenchman has already been discharged.
Kylian Mbappé is doubtful for the next match
Although he has already left the hospital, Mbappé's progress will be monitored until the very last moment before the next match. Real Madrid will face Pachuca on Sunday, in a key duel to advance in the competition. For now, his participation is hanging in the air.
Xabi Alonso doesn't want to take risks with him if he's not fully recovered physically. He knows he'll need him later, in even more demanding matches. Everything will depend on how he responds in the training sessions before the clash.
A start with tension and high expectations
The new stage under Xabi's leadership has begun with ups and downs and a lot of media attention. The tactical changes haven't been noticeable yet, but the season is long. If Mbappé recovers, he'll be the difference-maker in this adventure.
The white fans hope the next match will mark the real beginning of the project. With the pressure to win the Club World Cup, there's no room for slip-ups. The French star's recovery will be key to avoiding more scares at the start of this new era.