Real Madrid suffers major blow ahead of FIFA Club World Cup semifinal vs PSG: Xabi Alonso weighs three replacement options
Real Madrid‘s path to Club World Cup glory has hit a serious obstacle. Just days ahead of their much-anticipated semifinal showdown with Paris Saint-Germain, manager Xabi Alonso has been forced into a defensive reshuffle. One of his key players in the back line will miss the clash due to suspension, leaving Alonso with three potential replacements — each with pros, cons, and massive pressure to fill the void. But who is the suspended star, and how did it all unfold?
Los Blancos defeated Borussia Dortmund 3-2 in a gripping quarterfinal clash, but the victory came at a high cost. In the dying moments of stoppage time, one of Madrid’s rising defensive stars committed a costly foul inside the penalty area on Serhou Guirassy, leading to a straight red card and a penalty.
Though Thibaut Courtois kept Madrid’s lead intact with a crucial save, the defender’s red card meant he would miss the semifinal against PSG — a devastating blow for a player who had started every match since joining the club earlier in the season.
The 20-year-old Dean Huijsen, who arrived from Bournemouth for $58 million, had been a revelation in Alonso’s three-man defense. Until the red card, he was widely praised for his ball control, defensive awareness, and ability to play progressive passes — all attributes that had quickly made him a fan favorite.
Xabi Alonso’s dilemma: Three contenders for one spot
With the young defender suspended, Alonso must now turn to one of three players to fill the void.
Raul Asencio – The likely starter
According to Diario AS, Alonso is expected to place his trust in Raul Asencio, a talented but volatile defender who had previously lost his starting spot after a red card against Pachuca. Asencio’s early performances in the Club World Cup were erratic, including a game against Al-Hilal where he conceded a penalty and was subbed off after just 45 minutes.
However, Asencio has shown flashes of brilliance during the domestic season and is viewed as the most experienced option in this context.
Eder Militao – The return from injury
Another possibility is Eder Militao, who is gradually recovering from a long-term injury. Although not yet fully fit, his return would bring valuable experience to the back line, particularly in a game of such magnitude.
Jacobo Ramon – The wild card
A less likely, but still possible choice is Jacobo Ramon, a young academy graduate who has impressed in cameo appearances at the end of the La Liga season and during brief minutes in the Club World Cup. At 19, his raw talent is clear, but Alonso may see starting him against a team as relentless as PSG as too big a gamble.
Tchouameni – Tactical shift?
Alonso also has the option to reposition Aurelien Tchouameni as a center-back — a role he has taken on before. However, this would mean sacrificing his crucial presence in midfield, something Alonso is reportedly unwilling to do from the outset. “He’ll likely stay in his usual role, adjusting only if needed,” reported Mundo Deportivo.