Real Madrid boss hit with huge selection headache ahead of Juventus showdown
18 June 2025, USA, Miami: Soccer: Club World Cup, Real Madrid - Al-Hilal, preliminary round, Group H, matchday 1 at the Hard Rock Stadium. Madrid coach Xabi Alonso arrives at the stadium before the match.
As Real Madrid get ready for their big FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 match against Juventus, manager Xabi Alonso has an important decision to make in defence.
After three matches in charge, Alonso’s preferred system is becoming clear with three central defenders.
Against Salzburg, this plan was confirmed, but now a key question remains: who will take the final spot in the back line alongside Dean Huijsen and Aurelien Tchouameni, who are both guaranteed starters.
The options are Raul Asencio or Antonio Rudiger.
Assessing the options
Asencio is back in the squad after serving his...