Carlo Ancelotti faced a challenging squad scenario during the intercontinental clash, with several players unavailable due to injuries. The situation raised questions about who would represent Real Madrid in the world competition and how the team would navigate the tournament without some key figures.
Real Madrid confirmed their participation for the 2023 Club World Cup on Monday afternoon, and Ancelotti had to chart a path forward while contending with multiple absences. The coach had to cope with missing a number of important players for the intercontinental event, prompting discussions about squad depth and strategic selection for the trip to Morocco.
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In the injury list, Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao, Ferland Mendy, Lucas Vázquez, Eden Hazard, and Karim Benzema were the players left out of the squad for the Club World Cup. Their absence forced Ancelotti to draw from the broader Madrid roster and, when necessary, to rely on younger players from Real Madrid Castilla to fill gaps and travel alongside the first team for the tournament.
As a result, squad adjustments included bringing in rising talents such as Luis López, Lucas Cañizarez, Marvelous, Mario Martin, and Sergio You to accompany the white delegation to the Mundialito. These selections were aimed at ensuring Madrid could compete at the highest level despite the setbacks and at preparing a pathway for youth players to gain exposure on the world stage.
Real Madrid’s call-up for the Club World Cup was officially confirmed, marking the team’s continued pursuit of continental glory even with a leaner squad. The absence of Courtois, Militao, Mendy, Lucas Vázquez, and Benzema was noted as a significant hurdle for the team, underscoring the challenges faced while assembling a competitive lineup for the tournament.
It should be remembered that the Spanish club would begin its Mundialito campaign on a Wednesday, facing Al-Ahly of Egypt. The visitors reached the knockout rounds by narrowly defeating Seattle Sounders in the previous stage, while Madrid, as reigning Champions League holders, would start in the semi-finals and aim to advance directly toward the final or the match for third place depending on results. The organizers did not shy away from highlighting Madrid’s status as a defending European champion and the expectations placed on the squad to perform at a high level despite injuries.
It is worth noting that if any injured players recovered in time for the decisive weekend, there remained a possibility they could travel to Morocco and participate in the final or third-place match, depending on the team’s progression and fitness demands. The dynamic around player availability continued to be a central theme as the event approached, influencing tactical planning and lineup decisions.
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End of report. This summary reflects roster decisions, injury concerns, and the anticipated path for Real Madrid in the Club World Cup, attributed to Goal for context.