real Madrid’s strongest XI for Al Hilal clash – shown in lineup

The Xabi Alonso era is set to begin, and the excitement is palpable among Madridistas worldwide. Real Madrid will take the pitch against Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal in their opening match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, marking the club’s first competitive game under their new manager.

Alonso, a club legend as a player and now tasked with shaping the future of one of the world’s most storied football institutions, enters this fixture with a largely fit squad. Despite the absence of key players like Eduardo Camavinga and Ferland Mendy due to injury, Los Blancos appear well-equipped to begin their campaign with purpose and intensity.

A lot has changed since Real Madrid lifted their record-extending 15th UEFA Champions League trophy earlier this year. With Carlo Ancelotti stepping down and Alonso stepping in, the tactical landscape is undergoing a significant shift. All eyes are now on how the Basque tactician will stamp his identity on this star-studded squad.

One of the major talking points ahead of this match is the expected debut of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who arrived from Liverpool in a high-profile summer transfer. Known for his precision in crossing and vision in the final third, Trent is set to offer Real Madrid a new dimension at right-back.

Another debutant in the spotlight is Dean Huijsen, the highly-rated centre-back from Juventus. With the defence undergoing a subtle rebuild in recent months, Huijsen could partner Asencio at centre-back while Fran Garcia is likely to retain his spot at left-back.

In midfield, Alonso seems to favour a 4-3-3 formation — a system that served him well during his coaching stint at Bayer Leverkusen. This shape allows Real Madrid to maintain both structure and flair, balancing defensive solidity with attacking creativity.

Aurelien Tchouameni is expected to anchor the midfield, operating as the deepest midfielder to break up play and initiate transitions. Flanking him will likely be Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham. The latter will occupy the advanced no.8 or no.10 role — a position in which he has thrived since arriving in Spain.

Bellingham’s presence higher up the pitch offers Real Madrid the perfect bridge between midfield and attack. His goalscoring instincts, coupled with his work ethic, make him indispensable to Alonso’s plans. This also allows Valverde to contribute as a box-to-box midfielder, supporting both ends of the pitch.

On the wings, Vinicius Junior is a guaranteed starter on the left. The Brazilian superstar has become the face of Real Madrid’s attack and continues to torment defenders with his pace, agility, and creativity. The right-wing spot, however, presents an interesting tactical puzzle.

Many expected Rodrygo to start on the right, but there are growing indications that Arda Güler could be given the nod instead. The young Turkish maestro has impressed in pre-season and offers an elegant technical option who can cut inside and link up play.

The centre-forward position, of course, draws the most attention. Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid’s blockbuster signing, is expected to lead the line. The Frenchman brings an aura of inevitability with his pace, power, and finishing — although some insiders believe Alonso might start Rodrygo instead, easing Mbappe in gradually.

The tactical intrigue doesn’t end there. Alonso’s emphasis on pressing, structured buildup, and quick ball movement means we may see a more proactive version of Real Madrid than under Ancelotti. This transformation, though still in its early stages, will be tested immediately against a disciplined Al Hilal side.

Al Hilal, boasting the likes of Malcom, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, and Ruben Neves, are no pushovers. Their attacking strength and ability to control midfield spaces means Real Madrid must be tactically sharp from the first whistle. Alonso, known for his footballing intelligence, will have to manage both the tempo and the personnel with finesse.

Real Madrid’s projected XI versus Al Hilal reads: Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Huijsen, Fran Garcia; Tchouameni, Valverde, Bellingham; Güler, Vinicius Jr., Mbappe. It’s a lineup packed with youth, flair, and raw potential — perfectly tailored to Alonso’s tactical philosophy.

One name conspicuously absent from the starting eleven is Rodrygo Goes. According to some fan sources, he’s just returning from injury and may not be fit enough to start. Others argue he’s being tactically rested as Alonso wants to test different combinations before the tournament progresses.

The omission has sparked passionate debate among fans, especially across social platforms. Some have backed Alonso’s decision to trust new players and rotate, while others feel Rodrygo deserves a guaranteed spot after his contributions in past seasons.

The match will also serve as a barometer for how well Real Madrid’s summer acquisitions can gel under pressure. With so many expectations resting on the shoulders of Alonso, Mbappe, and the new defensive recruits, a convincing performance could set the tone for the rest of the tournament.

Ultimately, this clash is not just about lifting a trophy. It’s the start of a new chapter. The beginning of a post-Ancelotti Real Madrid. And for Xabi Alonso, it’s the chance to silence doubters and prove that the managerial future of Real Madrid is in trusted hands.