Xabi Alonso admitted PSG “got ahead from the very start,” and emphasised there are “big learnings to take” following Real Madrid’s 4–0 defeat in the Club World Cup semi-final.

He described the early goals as decisive: “The start of the match marked a lot” and acknowledged PSG’s class. Yet he underlined that this result highlights Madrid’s rebuilding process under his leadership not a failure: “This is the end of the season and not the start of the next.”  

Alonso also used the moment to salute squad veterans. He confirmed that this night marked the final appearances for Luka Modric and Lucas Vázquez, thanking them for their service.

He took accountability for squad setup but looked forward: “There will be time to rest before the 2025‑26 season, with clarity and new goals ahead.” Despite defensive errors and PSG dominance, Alonso insisted this loss doesn’t define his project.

The focus now shifts to a third-place match and more importantly, the upcoming rebuild.

Written by Pejuola Ransome