Xabi Alonso Hails Debutants Dean Huijsen & Trent Alexander-Arnold After Real Madrid’s 1-1 Draw vs Al Hilal
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has expressed satisfaction with the debut performances of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, following Los Blancos’ hard-fought 1-1 draw against Saudi giants Al Hilal in their opening FIFA Club World Cup match.
Both players were summer arrivals — Trent from Liverpool and Huijsen from Bournemouth — and were handed their first appearances in what Alonso called a “special day” for the duo.
“I want to congratulate Dean and Trent for their debut, this is a special day for them, and they’ll be very important for us,” Alonso told reporters.
While the draw was a bit of a disappointment for Madridistas hoping for a dominant start to the tournament, the focus has now shifted to integrating new faces and adjusting to the demanding conditions in Saudi Arabia — where Raul Asencio had to be substituted after struggling with the heat.
🗣️ Opinion – The Beginning of a New Madrid Era?
Alonso’s praise for Alexander-Arnold and Huijsen signals something deeper — a generational refresh at Real Madrid. In Trent, Madrid have landed one of football’s most technically gifted right-backs, whose playmaking can add flair and vision to their buildup.
And in Dean Huijsen — tall, intelligent, and composed — Madrid may have unearthed their next defensive rock. His arrival from Bournemouth raised eyebrows, but his calm display under pressure against Al Hilal has quieted doubters.
Let’s not forget, Alonso himself is no stranger to elegance and tactical intelligence — and if he’s putting faith in these two players, fans should take notice.
🔜 What’s Next?
🆚 Real Madrid face Mexican champions Pachuca on Sunday
🧊 Fitness and heat management will be a key factor
⚔️ Eyes on Alexander-Arnold’s creative output and Huijsen’s defensive discipline
📲 Follow @TalkTalkNigeria for exclusive Club World Cup coverage and all things Real Madrid this summer.
📌 #TrentJoinsMadrid #DeanHuijsenDebut #ClubWorldCup2025 #AlonsoEra #Madridismo #TalkTalkSports
