Xabi Alonso Faces Striker Dilemma: Garcia or Mbappé for Real Madrid vs Dortmund at 2025 Club World Cup

According to BolaSport.com, coach Xabi Alonso is facing a crucial decision ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, set to take place at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.

The primary dilemma for the Madrid coach centers on who to start as the team’s main striker — rising star Gonzalo Garcia or veteran forward Kylian Mbappé, who recently recovered from a bout of acute gastroenteritis.

Garcia made the most of his opportunity during Mbappé’s absence, delivering standout performances that included:

• Three goals in four appearances

• A match-winning goal in the 1–0 victory over Juventus

• Consistent form throughout the tournament

Meanwhile, Mbappé — now fully fit — returned to action as a substitute in the match against Juventus, further intensifying the competition for a starting role in Madrid’s attack ahead of the highly anticipated clash.

Alonso’s final decision could prove decisive as Real Madrid aim to continue their title push at the Club World Cup.