A new chapter began at Real Madrid this week, as club legend Xabi Alonso took charge of his first official match at the helm of the Spanish giants. However, the highly anticipated debut did not unfold as expected.

Real Madrid begin their Club World Cup campaign as they face Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal this evening. Los Blancos missed out on both the La Liga title and the Champions League this term, but have strengthened their squad with the addition of Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back, and Xabi Alonso has replaced Carlo Ancelotti in the dugout.

Xabi Alonso got off to a disappointing start at Real Madrid as the Spanish giant was held to a 1-1 draw by Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal in the Club World Cup on Wednesday. In his first game as coach of the 15-time European champion,