Club World Cup set to decide future of six Real Madrid stars under Xabi Alonso
According to a recent report from SPORT, several Real Madrid players are facing uncertain futures as incoming manager Xabi Alonso prepares to take charge of his first matches.
With no major silverware to show for the season, Real Madrid are now focusing on the upcoming Club World Cup, a rare opportunity to end a disappointing campaign with a trophy, and more importantly, a critical proving ground for fringe players.
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This new edition of the Club World Cup will serve as a litmus test for several members of the current squad.
While certain names like Jesus Vallejo and Lucas Vazquez are expected to depart regardless of performance, others still have a chance to convince Alonso they deserve to stay.
Luka Modric, Dani Ceballos, Endrick, David Alaba, Rodrygo, and Fran Garcia are all players whose futures are not yet secure.
Alaba and Garcia under pressure
David Alaba is facing uncertain future. (Photo by)
Alaba's situation is particularly delicate. The recovery of Eder Militao and Antonio Rüdiger, combined with the likely integration of young defender Dean Huijsen, means Alaba could start the season as Real Madrid's fourth-choice centre-back.
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To add to the challenge, Alonso is said to be keen on giving youth academy talent Joan Martinez a shot in the first team.
On the left flank, Garcia is under equally intense scrutiny. With Ferland Mendy recovering from injury and Alvaro Carreras heavily linked with a return to Madrid, the left-back position is facing an overload.
Garcia will be the only natural left-back available for the Club World Cup and is expected to use the tournament as a final audition. If he fails to impress, he could be the one sacrificed when Mendy regains fitness and Carreras potentially arrives.
Rodrygo and Endrick face different paths
Rodrygo will play the FIFA Club World Cup for his future. (Photo by)
Rodrygo's case is more complex. While the Brazilian has contributed in flashes, the arrival of Kylian Mbappe and the rise of Arda Guler may limit his minutes. If Madrid decide to cash in, Rodrygo's exit would come in the form of a permanent transfer, not a loan.
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Endrick, on the other hand, is still seen as one for the future. While there is excitement about his potential, the plan may involve loaning him out to gain consistent playing time, especially if the attacking positions are crowded.
Lastly, in midfield, Ceballos and Modric are also entering uncertain territory. The Croatian's time at Madrid may be drawing to a close unless he can prove to Alonso that he still has the legs and vision to contribute at the highest level.
Meanwhile, Ceballos has struggled to consistently break into the starting XI and could be seen as expendable unless he shines at the Club World Cup.
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