The regular season has come to an end for Real Madrid. After a complicated year, with a drop in performance that has left the team without titles, everything points to a change. Carlo Ancelotti has closed his cycle on the white bench and now, Xabi Alonso takes charge with renewed energy.
The focus is on a major goal: the Club World Cup. It's a tournament that could mark the new white era and set the bar high from the start. Alonso and his players are working against the clock to prepare for the event.
The Club World Cup, the major immediate challenge
Real Madrid will start training on June 9, with a limited squad but with great excitement. The team will travel to the United States on June 14. There, the group stage will begin on June 18.
The schedule isn't easy. The first opponent will be Al Hilal in Miami, followed by Pachuca in Charlotte. The last group match will be played in Philadelphia against Salzburg. Only the top two will advance to the round of 16.
If everything goes well, Real Madrid will play the round of 16 between June 28 and July 1. The quarterfinals will take place on July 4 and 5, and the semifinals on July 8 and 9. The grand final will be on July 13. Xabi Alonso wants to make history and win his first title with the club.
Vinícius Júnior, key piece in the project
Everything will depend largely on Vinícius Júnior's performance. The last season hasn't been easy for the Brazilian; he has suffered a goal drought that has drawn criticism. In addition, his controversies and internal disputes have affected him.
Even so, Vinícius remains essential. Million-euro offers from Arabia have circled Bernabéu; there was even talk of one billion. However, the player and the club have decided to postpone the contract renewal negotiation until after the Club World Cup.
The renewal everyone desires
Vinícius has a contract until 2027, but the desire is clear: to extend it until 2030. It's said that he wants to become the highest-paid player, with a net salary close to €30 million.
During the World Cup, the Brazilian will have to show that he deserves that trust. In addition, he will be one of the four captains of the team, a role that demands maturity and leadership. Xabi Alonso has already shown his trust in him and in Mbappé to lead the project.
Meanwhile, the Brazilian is focused with Ancelotti in Brazil. He's expected to sign his new contract right after the World Cup. His entourage and the club agree that the future remains white, despite the tempting external offers.