Xabi Alonso debut: Real Madrid shows imbalance in Mundial de Clubes

Xabi Alonso debuted as Real Madrid's coach in the Mundial de Clubes, but his team showed a lack of balance and rhythm in the first half, with new players like Trent and Huijsen struggling to make an impact.

The team's performance was hindered by the absence of key players like Rodri, Vitinha, and Zubimendi, leaving them looking flat and unimpressive. However, the introduction of Güler in the second half brought some much-needed spark to the team. Xabi Alonso also brought in Lucas Vázquez and Modric in the final stretch to try and improve the team's performance.

The Real Madrid squad is currently depleted, with most players exhausted after playing 63 games so far this season. The team is at a crossroads, and their chances of success in the championship are unclear. Despite high expectations for Xabi Alonso's debut, the team failed to meet them, and it remains to be seen how they will perform under their new coach.

Xabi Alonso's coaching style appears to be similar to that of his predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti, with a 4-3-3 formation and defensive weaknesses. While it's understandable that he couldn't pass a rigorous test in his first game with only four training sessions, there are similarities with Ancelotti's team, such as the lack of players and the integration of some players like Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Vinicius.

The debut of Xabi Alonso as Real Madrid's coach has raised more questions than answers, and it will be interesting to see how the team develops under his leadership. With some positives, like the impressive performance of Gonzalo and the potential success of Huijsen, there is still hope for the team to turn their season around.