Alonso's Bet on Brahim: Opportunity Knocks After Real Madrid's Club World Cup Exit

Real Madrid's journey in the Club World Cup has ended following a tough loss to PSG. Despite the disappointing result, coach Xabi Alonso sees positives for the upcoming season. However, one key concern for President Florentino Pérez has been Brahim Díaz, who saw very limited playing time in the tournament.

Xabi Alonso has clearly expressed his belief in Brahim's importance to the team, communicating this both to the player and to Florentino Pérez. Alonso explained that the Club World Cup was a unique, short-term competition that didn't allow for the rotation he plans to implement during the regular season. He reassured Pérez that Brahim will be a vital player next season, aiming for him to become a "number 12 player" who consistently makes an impact off the bench.

Brahim, who is working hard in training and has earned praise from the coaching staff, is prepared to return to his 2024 performance level. He spoke highly of Alonso, noting the coach’s quality and approachability. "He still has the same quality and the same pass. He gets involved in the game and seems like one of the guys," Brahim said. "He was meant to have more years playing. He’s eager to get the most out of [the team]. He’s approachable and talks to everyone. What I’ve talked about with him stays between us. I'm happy he’s here."

Brahim's Opportunity

The situation presents a significant opportunity for Brahim. Jude Bellingham is scheduled to undergo shoulder surgery in the coming days, which will sideline the English star for several months. Brahim aims to capitalize on this absence, just as he did under former coach Carlo Ancelotti.

During "La Decimoquinta" (the 15th Champions League) season, Brahim thrived in the role of substituting for Bellingham, delivering his best performance in a Real Madrid jersey. Despite the minimal minutes in the Club World Cup, Brahim remains calm and confident in Alonso's trust. He is focusing on intense summer training to ensure he is in top physical shape for the pre-season, with the goal of stepping into Bellingham’s role during the early weeks of the competition.