Real Madrid vs WSG Tirol: Predicted Lineup, Team News for 2025–26

The summer of 2025 has been far from straightforward for Real Madrid. The newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup not only stole the spotlight in June and July but also threw Europe’s traditional preseason routines into chaos. For Los Blancos, this disruption has meant a severely shortened preparation period before the 2025–26 campaign kicks off.

Remarkably, Real Madrid have just one scheduled preseason match a midweek trip to Innsbruck, Austria, where they will face Austrian Bundesliga side WSG Tirol.

While Tirol may not be a household name in global football, they have enjoyed a bright start to their domestic season, and this match offers them a rare opportunity to host one of the world’s most glamorous clubs.

For Madrid, the game represents more than just a fitness exercise it’s a vital chance for new manager Xabi Alonso to fine-tune his tactics, assess his squad, and iron out any weaknesses before the real competition begins.

A Summer Shaped by the Club World Cup

This year’s revamped Club World Cup has been both a blessing and a burden for Real Madrid. On one hand, it gave them a chance to compete against elite clubs from around the globe, further boosting their brand and testing their strength against diverse opposition.

On the other, it meant less rest and less preparation time ahead of the domestic and European campaigns.

Madrid’s run in the tournament was cut short after a semifinal defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, where tactical adjustments particularly following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s injury proved costly. Instead of returning to Spain with another trophy, Alonso and his men came home with lessons learned, bruised egos, and the realization that Barcelona still look like the team to beat in La Liga.

The Stakes Against WSG Tirol

While this friendly might seem like a low-pressure encounter, its importance to Alonso cannot be overstated. It’s his only live-action test before competitive matches return, and it’s a chance to see:

• How new signings settle into the squad

• Which youngsters are ready to step up

• Whether his preferred tactical system can work with the current personnel

The match will also serve as a platform for fringe players and returning loanees to make their case for first-team minutes.

Read Also: Wings vs Fever: Preview, Odds, Key Players & How to Watch Live

Predicted Real Madrid Lineup vs WSG Tirol (4-3-1-2)

Alonso is likely to go with a balanced yet experimental XI  enough star power to keep the team competitive, but with opportunities for those needing game time.

Goalkeeper: Andriy Lunin

With Thibaut Courtois still the undisputed No.1 after his heroics in the Club World Cup, there’s little reason to risk him in this friendly. Instead, Andriy Lunin should get the nod. The Ukrainian has proven himself a reliable deputy and will relish the chance to show Alonso he’s capable of handling more responsibility.

Right-Back: Trent Alexander-Arnold

Despite his injury setback in the Club World Cup semifinal, the Englishman remains central to Alonso’s tactical vision.

While Alonso experimented with him as a wing-back, a traditional back four could suit both player and manager better. His range of passing and crossing ability will be key against a compact Tirol side.

Centre-Back: Raúl Asencio

The young Spaniard’s off-field legal troubles and underwhelming Club World Cup displays make this a pivotal moment in his Madrid career. Alonso could still start him here, perhaps as a last audition to prove his worth before the season begins.

Centre-Back: Dean Huijsen

A summer signing who’s settled quickly and impressed defensively, Huijsen looks set to be a regular starter. This match will give him another chance to develop chemistry with whichever partner Alonso chooses.

Left-Back: Álvaro Carreras

With Ferland Mendy sidelined, Carreras — a former Madrid youth product returning this summer has a golden opportunity to cement himself in the rotation. His energy and defensive discipline could make him a surprise standout this season.

Central Midfield: Aurélien Tchouaméni

The versatile Frenchman remains a pillar of Alonso’s midfield plans. Whether deployed as a defensive shield or a deep-lying playmaker, Tchouaméni’s adaptability is one of Madrid’s biggest assets.

Central Midfield: Thiago Pitarch

Only 18 years old, Pitarch is one of the academy’s brightest prospects. His mature display in a closed-door match against Leganés has earned him a place in Austria, and he may get a starting role here with Federico Valverde absent.

Central Midfield: Dani Ceballos

The 2024–25 season saw a resurgence for Ceballos, who thrived whenever given minutes. With Camavinga and Bellingham out injured, Alonso may turn to Ceballos for creativity and ball retention in midfield.

Attacking Midfield: Arda Güler

The Turkish starlet has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of Alonso’s arrival. Given freedom to operate in advanced areas, Güler’s vision and technical skills could be the key to unlocking Tirol’s defense.

Striker: Kylian Mbappé

After a disappointing Club World Cup campaign, Mbappé has had a few weeks to recharge. This is his chance to send a message ahead of the season — expect him to be sharp, hungry, and looking for goals.

Striker: Vinícius Júnior

His contract uncertainty and dip in form over the past year have made headlines, but Alonso still backs him publicly. If he can strike up chemistry with Mbappé, this partnership could terrify defenses across Europe.

What to Expect from Real Madrid’s Tactics

Alonso’s 4-3-1-2 offers Madrid:

• Width from the full-backs rather than wingers

• A compact midfield trio to dominate possession

• A fluid front two capable of interchanging positions

Against Tirol, expect high pressing, quick transitions, and heavy involvement from Alexander-Arnold and Carreras in attack.

Players to Watch

• Arda Güler – Could become Madrid’s breakout star under Alonso.

• Thiago Pitarch – A teenage midfielder with composure beyond his years.

• Álvaro Carreras – Fighting to seize a rare opening at left-back.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is the Real Madrid vs WSG Tirol preseason match?

The friendly between Real Madrid and WSG Tirol is scheduled for midweek in August 2025. It will take place in Innsbruck, Austria, and serves as Madrid’s only preseason game before the 2025–26 season kicks off.

2. Where can I watch Real Madrid vs WSG Tirol live?

Depending on your location, the match may be streamed on Real Madrid TV, the club’s official app, or select sports channels. Check your local broadcaster listings for coverage details.

3. Why is Real Madrid playing only one preseason match in 2025?

The newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup disrupted the traditional preseason schedule, leaving Madrid with limited time to arrange additional friendlies before the domestic and Champions League campaigns begin.

4. Which players are injured for Real Madrid ahead of this game?

Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, and Ferland Mendy are all recovering from injuries and will miss the Tirol friendly. Trent Alexander-Arnold recently returned from an injury suffered during the Club World Cup.

5. What formation is Xabi Alonso likely to use against WSG Tirol?

Alonso is expected to go with a 4-3-1-2 setup, focusing on full-back width, a compact midfield trio, and a flexible front two of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior.

Final Thoughts: A Friendly with Real Consequences

For most clubs, preseason friendlies are about fitness. For Real Madrid in 2025, this one is about identity, readiness, and proof of concept for Xabi Alonso’s system.

A commanding performance in Innsbruck could set the tone for a season where Madrid aim to dethrone Barcelona, reclaim domestic dominance, and secure a record-extending 16th Champions League title. Anything less than convincing might leave questions lingering questions they won’t have time to answer once competitive action begins.