Three pressing issues Real Madrid need to resolve now that Club World Cup is over | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s exit from the Club World Cup has left the club in a tough spot. With the 2025/26 season approaching quickly, head coach Xabi Alonso has no choice but to speed up planning.

This setback is his first big challenge since taking charge. Still early in his journey, the Spaniard has said he is taking many lessons from the failure and is now expected to act fast on several important matters at the club.

From sorting out the final squad to key transfer decisions, Alonso has his hands full. The leadership at the club, including Jose Angel Sanchez and president Florentino Perez, are already discussing what needs to be done.

Big decisions are coming, and some are more urgent than others.

Squad composition

Rodrygo faces uncertain future at Real Madrid. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

One of the most talked-about situations right now is Rodrygo. The Brazilian forward barely featured in the Club World Cup, and that has not gone unnoticed.

Inside the club, many see it as a sign that Rodrygo might not be in Alonso’s future plans. While nothing is official yet, it’s clear that his role will be a hot topic in the upcoming meetings between Alonso and the club’s top figures.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid is close to wrapping up a deal for Alvaro Carreras. The left-back has been shining in Portugal and is seen as a strong addition to the team.

Even though Fran García had a good showing at the Club World Cup, Alonso wants more stability on the left side.

Ferland Mendy, due to constant injuries, can no longer be fully trusted in that role. The Carreras deal could be made official very soon, possibly within days.

Endrick or Gonazalo: That’s the question

What will Real Madrid do with Gonzalo Garcia. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Another important point on Alonso’s list is what to do with Gonzalo Garcia. The young forward was one of the few bright spots for Madrid during the Club World Cup. Scoring four goals, he ended the tournament as the team’s top scorer.

His performances have won over the coaching staff, and unless something major changes, he will stay with the first team. Alonso appears to believe in him, and the club wants to back homegrown talent more than ever.

However, all eyes are also on Endrick, the next big Brazilian talent. The plan is still not fully clear, but his presence will definitely have an impact on how much playing time young players like Gonzalo receive next season.

Vinicius’ contract renewal

Vinicius’ contract renewal is pending. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Lastly, it is to be noted that Vinicius Jr. is under pressure. His recent performances haven’t lived up to expectations, and he has been taken off early in several matches.

Some see this as a message from Alonso that the Brazilian needs to put in more defensive effort and return to the form that once made him one of the team’s most dangerous players.

Another concern is Vinicius’s contract renewal. The new deal is still not signed, and the delay might be affecting his confidence.

While there is no doubt about his talent, the talks need to move forward soon to bring some peace of mind to both the player and the club.