Mbappe and Vinicius Set to Ignite Real Madrid's Attack as Carreras Eyes Dream Debut Against WSG Tirol
The restructured Club World Cup has thrown European clubs' preseason preparations into chaos, leaving Real Madrid with only a single friendly match scheduled before the 2025–26 campaign begins.
The Spanish giants, seeking to overthrow Barcelona in domestic competition and secure their 16th Champions League title this season, journey to Innsbruck during the week to face the traditionally modest WSG Tirol, who have made an impressive start to the Austrian Bundesliga campaign.
Alonso would have gained valuable insights about his squad during their time in the United States, with just one new signing added since Madrid's return to the Spanish capital, though significant work remains if Madrid hopes to surpass a dominant-looking Blaugrana.
Here's how Real Madrid might set up for their sole preseason fixture of the summer.
Real Madrid Predicted Lineup vs. WSG Tirol (4-3-1-2)
GK: Andriy Lunin—Thibaut Courtois delivered strong performances at the Club World Cup and doesn't necessarily require playing time here. Alonso might therefore provide backup keeper Andriy Lunin with an opportunity in Innsbruck.
RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold—The English defender's injury disrupted Alonso's tactical approach for their Club World Cup semifinal loss to Paris Saint-Germain, as the Spanish manager had previously deployed Alexander-Arnold as a wing-back. The new coach seems unlikely to find lasting success with a three-man defense.
CB: Raúl Asencio—The young center-back struggled during the Club World Cup and faces pending legal issues. Nevertheless, he currently remains part of Alonso's squad and will feature alongside Madrid's veteran defensive options.
CB: Dean Huijsen—The recent acquisition has made an immediate impact and appears to be a crucial component of Madrid's defensive setup.
LB: Álvaro Carreras—With Ferland Mendy sidelined through injury, former Madrid academy product Carreras has the opportunity to cement his position on the left flank following his summer return to the club.
CM: Aurélien Tchouaméni—The adaptable French midfielder is expected to play a significant role under the tactically flexible Alonso during the manager's inaugural season.
CM: Thiago Pitarch—The 18-year-old could receive a chance in Austria after his impressive showing in a closed-door match against Leganes. Federico Valverde has not traveled with the squad.
CM: Dani Ceballos—Ceballos might earn a starting position after his rejuvenated 2024–25 season, with Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham unavailable due to injuries.
AM: Arda Güler—Güler has emerged as one of the primary beneficiaries of Alonso's arrival. The new manager has confidence in the gifted Turkish attacking midfielder, who could operate in an advanced position.
ST: Kylian Mbappé—Following a disappointing showing in the United States, Mbappé has had time to fully recuperate over recent weeks and should be eager to begin the 2025–26 season.
ST: Vinicíus Júnior—The Brazilian's reputation has declined significantly over the past year, with questions surrounding his Madrid future amid ongoing contract negotiations. However, Alonso has maintained that Viní Jr remains integral to his plans. Can he make the star partnership function effectively in attack?