Real Madrid will face Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final without Trent Alexander-Arnold. The match is scheduled for Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
Alexander-Arnold, who recently joined Real Madrid from Liverpool, is not included in the squad. According to the Spanish radio station Cope, the English right-back suffered a "setback" during training. He was doubtful for the match, and ultimately was not called up. It is currently unknown whether he will be fit for the final against Chelsea if Real Madrid wins against Paris Saint-Germain.
This is a significant blow for Real Madrid, especially considering that Dean Huijsen is also unavailable due to suspension. To compensate for these absences, it is expected that Valverde will play as right-back and Tchouameni as centre-back.
Real Madrid's confirmed starting lineup includes Courtois in goal; Valverde, Rüdiger, Asensio and Fran García in defense; Arda Güler, Tchouameni, and Bellingham in midfield; and Mbappé, Gonzalo and Vinicius Jr. as strikers. Xabi Alonso has opted to start homegrown player Gonzalo García, who is the top scorer in the competition, alongside Mbappé and Vinícius. This marks the first time this attacking trio has been tested together, against a strong opponent.
PSG's starting XI shows two changes from their previous match, a 2-0 victory over Bayern Munich. Lucas Beraldo replaces the suspended Willian Pacho in defence, while Ousmane Dembélé takes Bradley Barcola's place upfront. The PSG lineup is as follows: Donnarumma, Hakimi, Nuno Mendes, Marquinhos, Lucas Beraldo, Vitinha, Neves, Fabian, Dembele, Doue, Kvaratskhelia.
The absence of Alexander-Arnold is a significant setback for Real Madrid. Sky Sports News reported that Alexander-Arnold is out due to an injury. In addition to Alexander-Arnold and Huijsen, Real Madrid is also missing David Alaba and Ferland Mendy due to long-term injuries. Dani Carvajal and Eduardo Camavinga are on the bench and could potentially make a return.