Alonso's three options to replace Huijsen

football

Express newspaper

06/07/2025 15:35

On Saturday, Real Madrid secured qualification for the semi-finals of the Club World Cup after victory over Borussia Dortmund, but will be without Dean Huijsen for the clash against Paris Saint-Germain.

The defender, who joined the club from AFC Bournemouth this summer, was sent off in stoppage time, meaning he is suspended for the semi-final against the European champions.

Huijsen has shown excellent performances during the US tour, but his absence for Real's most important match so far in this competition is a major concern for coach Xabi Alonso, who is already without two other starting defenders: Eder Militao and David Alaba, who are injured.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Alonso has three options to replace Huijsen in the lineup that will face PSG on Wednesday at the MetLife Stadium:

1. Raul Asencio – is the most likely candidate for the starting lineup. He has been in the starting lineup against Al-Hilal and Pachuca, although he was sent off against the latter. Although he has struggled in the United States, his performances in big games during the 2024-25 season have been convincing.
2. Aurelian Tchouameni – has played as a central defender on several occasions over the past year, including at this tournament. However, Alonso is reluctant to use him in that position alongside Antonio Rudiger, as he would lose his important presence in midfield.
3. Jacobo Ramon – is the least likely option. He left good impressions at the end of the season in La Liga against Mallorca and Sevilla, but despite having played 23 minutes in this World Cup, he is not expected to be at risk from the first minute against an opponent like PSG.