Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

PSG vs Real Madrid Lineups Out: Fede Valverde to Replace Trent Alexander‑Arnold Due to Setback

Alexander-Arnold Ruled Out Due to Training Knock; Xabi Alonso Calls on Versatile Valverde.

Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Real Madrid have confirmed that Trent Alexander‑Arnold will not start in their high-stakes Club World Cup semi-final against Paris Saint‑Germain. The English full-back suffered a minor muscle issue during Madrid’s training in Palm Beach on Tuesday.

Thus, prompting Xabi Alonso to adjust his starting lineup ahead of the clash at MetLife Stadium. Alexander‑Arnold had been expected to make his first start of the tournament. Especially after contributing two assists during Real’s impressive run.

📋✅ Our starting XI!
🆚 @PSG_English pic.twitter.com/G44eiYi0n5
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) July 9, 2025

However, the late withdrawal comes after he felt some discomfort in his right leg during practice. This has forced him out of the squad just before kick-off. In his place, veteran midfielder Fede Valverde will slot in at the engine room. It’s a role he’s familiar with from last season.

The Uruguayan has been able to handle both defensive duties and transitions on the flank whenever it was needed from him. Additionally, Real Madrid will be missing centre-back Dean Huijsen, who is suspended following a red card against Borussia Dortmund.

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Tactical Impact and Line-Up

The switch signals a tactical shift, with Valverde expected to provide overlapping runs and solidity at the back. Meanwhile, Carvajal has returned from injury but he is lacking match rhythm and Lucas Vazquez has also fell out of the coach’s favor. In the midst of it, Alonso’s has chosen the versatile Valverde in Trent’s place.

Real’s revised defensive setup is likely to feature Antonio Rudiger, Tchouameni, and Raul Asencio. Valverde is set to partner up with Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler, and Fran Garcia in the midfield helping the front three. Offensively, Madrid will maintain their attacking firepower with Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Gonzalo García spearheading the front line.

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The frontline will be fuelled by momentum from a dramatic 3-2 quarter-final win over Borussia Dortmund. The semi-final clash stands as a pivotal moment for both camps, with the winner set to advance to face Chelsea in Sunday’s final. Fans can catch the match live on DAZN.

Official PSG vs Real Madrid Starting XI

PSG Starting XI: Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Beraldo, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz; Doue, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia

Real Madrid Starting XI: Courtois; Asencio, Tchouameni, Rudiger; Valverde, Bellingham, Guler, F. Garcia; G. Garcia, Vinicius; Mbappe

Fede Valverde

PSG

PSG vs Real Madrid

Real Madrid

Trent Alexander-Arnold

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.