Real Madrid’s 1–1 draw with Al-Hilal in their Club World Cup opener has triggered a wave of criticism in Spain, with four key players coming under fire. In his debut as head coach, Xabi Alonso admitted the team was “unbalanced” in the first half and failed to convert second-half dominance into victory.

While Dean Huijsen impressed, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first outing in a Madrid shirt was met with disappointment. The Spanish press called him “transparent in attack” and tactically unconvincing in his new inverted role.

Defender Raul Asencio came under fire for conceding the penalty that allowed Al-Hilal to equalize. Though reportedly ill and playing in tough conditions, his costly mistake stood out. Meanwhile, stars Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham were also off the pace. Bellingham was labeled “absent,” and Vinicius “timid and ineffective.” Both were subbed off as Xabi Alonso looks to reshape his team.

With title ambitions on the line, Madrid must react swiftly to avoid further setbacks.