Vinicius, Mbappé, and Gonzalo—only two can start. The moment of truth is approaching for Xabi Alonso. The obvious move would be to bench the academy product. But it’s not so simple when that academy product is the tournament’s top scorer. A decision must be made. And this time, Kylian is fully fit. Lacking match sharpness, yes—but that only comes with minutes on the pitch.

There is one alternative: bench Vinicius and start Kylian alongside Gonzalo. It’s the least likely scenario, but someone has to sit. That much is non-negotiable.

The fans, for their part, have a clearer view: in a poll conducted by AS, 71% said they would drop Vinicius. Just 15% would start without Gonzalo, and 14% without Mbappé. The final word, however, belongs to Xabi Alonso.

His midfield, barring surprises, will remain untouched: Güler operating as the six, flanked by Valverde and Bellingham. Full-backs with width, depth, and the capacity to break lines.

Beyond the attacking conundrum, the other major question mark lies in defence: Huijsen is suspended after his red card against Dortmund. All signs point to Asencio stepping in—a player whose Club World Cup has been a far cry from ideal.

A penalty conceded in the first match, a red card in the second, and since then, a lost starting spot. But this Wednesday, he may get a second chance.

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Real Madrid’s projected lineup for the Club World Cup semi-final against PSG could look like this: Courtois; Asencio, Tchouaméni, Rüdiger; Trent, Valverde, Güler, Bellingham, Fran García; Mbappé/Gonzalo & Vinicius.

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