“Now I know certain things for sure.”
Those were the firm words of Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso after his team suffered a crushing 4–0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal in New Jersey. Rather than dodge questions or soften the blow, Alonso faced the media directly — and made it clear: changes are coming.
Outplayed and Outclassed
From the opening whistle, PSG dominated. A quick goal set the tone, and Real Madrid never recovered. Speaking post-match, Alonso didn’t sugarcoat the performance:
“The start of the match made a big difference. PSG is at a great level. We’ve only just started. We need to work calmly.”
Though the match was only part of a tournament, its implications were broader. For Alonso, this wasn’t just a loss — it was a lesson.
“What happened today is good for us to know what we still need to improve. We’re in a competitive context with hardly any training. Now it’s time to stop, but we’ll be back in four weeks.”
A Line Drawn: “This Championship Told Me Many Things”
More than just a tactical wake-up call, Alonso described the result as the end of a stage — and the beginning of something new.
“I’m leaving with certainties. This championship has told me a lot. About what we are, about what we need to improve. In August we start the 2025–26 season. It’ll be different.”
His words made it clear: the current setup isn’t enough. Expect transfer activity. Expect a different squad dynamic.
Farewell to Two Club Legends
In the midst of the disappointment, Alonso took a moment to recognize the contributions of two players playing their final matches for the club — Luka Modric and Lucas Vázquez.
“It’s not the best farewell, but I’ve tried to make sure they enjoy their last days at the club. I want to thank them for what they’ve been for Madrid.”
Modric is set to join AC Milan after nearly a decade of magic in white, while Vázquez’s next move is still unknown.
Transfers Incoming: “There’s Room to Improve”
Without naming names, Alonso hinted strongly at summer reinforcements.
“We haven’t talked during the World Cup about the squad’s composition, but we’re always thinking about improving. There’s room.”
The midfield, full-back depth, and attack — especially with uncertainty around Rodrygo — are all likely areas of focus. Real Madrid is expected to be aggressive in the market.
Self-Criticism and Tactical Errors
To his credit, Alonso took personal responsibility for part of the loss.
“Without a doubt, I made a mistake by putting in so many strikers. It’s the first defeat, but it won’t be the last. We need to accept it.”
Real Madrid has enjoyed a season of silverware under Alonso’s first year, but the defeat was a reminder: there’s still a gap between where they are and where they want to be.
Looking Ahead
As fans process the painful loss to PSG, Alonso’s direct words offer both clarity and hope. The message is simple: Madrid won’t stand still.
“We need to be self-critical, but not let this ending drag us down. It’s time to reset and start again.”
The 2025–26 season is just around the corner — and if Alonso has his way, it’ll be the start of something much bigger.