The tournament was a profitable one for Los Blancos.
Real Madrid earned a total of €74 million in prize money during their run in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, a lucrative return despite not conquering the tournament. Under new manager Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos advanced to the semifinals after dispatching Juventus in the Round of 16 and beating Borussia Dortmund in the quarterfinals. Their campaign came to a disappointing end with a 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
The tournament had been a top priority for club president Florentino Pérez, who made bold moves in the transfer market in anticipation of the event. The signings of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen were designed to strengthen a squad after a disappointing end to the 2024-25 season.
Alonso’s appointment before the Club World Cup created an internal debate. Some board members reportedly preferred he take over after the competition, allowing for a full preseason to implement his coaching philosophy. Instead, Alonso made his debut in high-stakes competition and managed to show some early glimpses of his tactical vision.
