PSG vs Real Madrid: Xabi Alonso's press conference canceled, here's why | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso, the Real Madrid manager, was a no-show at Tuesday night's press conference ahead of the highly anticipated clash against PSG in the Club World Cup semi-final. We now have a much clearer picture of the reasons behind his absence.

To say Real Madrid's pre-match build-up was turbulent would be an understatement. Set to face PSG tonight in the Club World Cup semi-final, Los Blancos were unable to fulfill their commitments, including the traditional FIFA-mandated press conference.

A major flight delay due to severe weather appears to be the main culprit. According to Marca, it all started at 4 p.m. when Real Madrid was scheduled to depart Miami for New York. However, a storm delayed their flight, and takeoff was pushed back by an hour and a half.

By 6:55 p.m., the pilots realized landing was impossible due to the ongoing storm. Erring on the side of caution, the decision was made to remain airborne. The Madrid squad circled over Virginia for an hour. Aware they would not arrive on time, Real Madrid requested FIFA to cancel the press conference.

At 7:45 p.m., FIFA officially announced the cancellation of Xabi Alonso's press conference, following the earlier cancellation of Luis Enrique's. "FIFA regrets to inform the media that, due to a delay in the expected arrival of Real Madrid in New York, New Jersey, today, this evening's press conference with head coach Xabi Alonso has been canceled," the international governing body said in a statement.

Finally, at 8:53 p.m., the Spanish squad's plane landed, several hours late. An hour later, they arrived at their hotel, finally able to begin preparations for the showdown with PSG. The rough journey forced Real Madrid into a tough decision, according to Spanish media reports.

Should they qualify for the final tonight, Los Blancos will not return to Palm Beach, instead remaining in New York to best prepare for the ultimate clash against Chelsea.