Real Madrid will face the upcoming Club World Cup with the intention of erasing the negative feelings from the recent season. The new format will bring together the planet's most outstanding champions. For Los Blancos, lifting that title is an absolute priority.
Florentino Pérez has made important decisions to increase the group's competitive level. The reinforcements have already started to arrive and are mainly focused on the defense. The objective is clear: to avoid the mistakes made during the last campaign.
Huijsen has been one of the first to arrive in the Spanish capital. Real Madrid has paid his release clause, valued at 59 million. His addition strengthens the center of the backline for the demanding international tournament.
Real Madrid speeds up their preparation for the Club World Cup
Another key name has been Trent Alexander-Arnold. Although his contract ended in June, Madrid wanted him immediately. That's why Florentino has paid 10 million to Liverpool to bring his arrival forward.
The investment in defense confirms the seriousness with which they approach the Club World Cup. Xabi Alonso wants to have all positions covered before the debut. The urgency has forced them to speed up moves that were initially planned for later.
However, the most surprising thing hasn't been Huijsen or Alexander-Arnold. Madrid has decided to include two young talents who'll make headlines. Both will be part of the squad traveling to the tournament.
Xabi Alonso backs new Real Madrid prospects
The chosen ones are Jesús Fortea and Diego Aguado, academy players who have already shined in the lower categories. Xabi Alonso has closely followed their development. Their inclusion in the list represents a bet on projection and emerging talent.
Jesús Fortea is a right-back and stands out for his speed, tactical intelligence, and ability to join the attack. He has been key in the Youth League. Meanwhile, Aguado plays as a deep-lying playmaker with great vision.
Both youngsters will have the opportunity to train with the senior team and perhaps play some minutes. Their presence allows them to cover possible unexpected absences. In addition, they could take advantage of the international stage to earn the coach's trust.
Florentino strengthens Xabi's project with a vision for the future
Florentino isn't only thinking about the immediate present. The president wants the World Cup to also serve as a platform for the youngest players' growth. That's why the bet on Fortea and Aguado fits with the new sporting philosophy.
Xabi Alonso values homegrown talents highly. He believes they can bring freshness, excitement, and energy at key moments. In this case, his decision has been key for the final squad list.
Real Madrid want to win the Club World Cup and will do so with a mix of stars and prospects. The path is already set. Now, they just need to prove that this time they're truly ready to win it all.