In a statement that stirred the football world, former Real Madrid striker Pedja Mijatovic, the hero of the 1998 Champions League final, suggested that coach Xabi Alonso bench Vinicius Júnior for the Club World Cup semifinal against PSG, scheduled for July 2025 at a yet-to-be-confirmed venue. Speaking on Spanish radio Cadena SER, the Serbian advocated for a starting duo of Kylian Mbappé, recently recovered from injury, and Gonzalo García, who is in top form with four goals in five tournament matches. Mijatovic’s proposal reignites discussions about Vini Jr.’s role in the squad, especially in a highly anticipated matchup against Mbappé’s former club. He argued that leveraging Gonzalo’s hot streak and Mbappé’s experience could secure a victory.
Mijatovic’s stance didn’t go unnoticed. He emphasized that the ideal lineup against PSG would feature Mbappé and Gonzalo, without needing to “reinvent the wheel” with Vinicius. The Serbian noted that Real Madrid’s current momentum, driven by players in peak form, allows for bold choices without sacrificing performance.
- Mbappé brings proven quality and experience against top teams.
- Gonzalo García is in top form, with impressive stats in the Club World Cup.
- Xabi Alonso has shown skill in making strategic decisions during the tournament.
The debate over the lineup reflects the depth of Real Madrid’s squad, which faces a season of high expectations. The semifinal against PSG is seen as one of the tournament’s most anticipated clashes, heightened by Mbappé’s reunion with his former club.
💪✨ TODO EN JUEGO. pic.twitter.com/Msb4FKxie2
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) July 9, 2025
History of criticism toward Vinicius Júnior
Pedja Mijatovic is no stranger to controversy involving Vinicius Júnior. In March 2024, he suggested the Brazilian needed a “radical change” in behavior, pointing out that his frequent complaints against referees and opponents tarnished his image. Later, in September of the same year, Mijatovic criticized a celebration by Vini Jr., deeming it excessive. These remarks sparked mixed reactions among fans and pundits, with some defending the forward’s vibrant personality and others agreeing he needed more emotional control.
Mijatovic’s history with Real Madrid lends weight to his words. As a player, he scored the goal that clinched the 1998 Champions League title against Juventus, ending a 32-year drought for the club. From 2006 to 2009, he served as sporting director, shaping key squad decisions. His football insights are respected, but his call to bench Vini Jr. has raised questions about the Brazilian’s value, a key figure for the club in recent years.
Gonzalo García’s breakout moment
Gonzalo García, a 21-year-old rising star for Real Madrid, has shone in the Club World Cup. With four goals in five matches, the young forward has earned the trust of Xabi Alonso and the fans. His speed, sharp finishing, and knack for positioning in crucial plays have made him a vital part of the team’s tactics.
In a recent match against RB Salzburg, Gonzalo showcased versatility, serving as both a focal point in attack and a playmaker. His developing partnership with Mbappé, tested successfully in training and games, is seen as a potential game-changer for the PSG clash. The duo’s chemistry could exploit weaknesses in the Parisian defense.
Mbappé vs. PSG: a highly anticipated reunion
Kylian Mbappé, who left PSG in 2024 to join Real Madrid, will face his former club for the first time in the Club World Cup semifinal. The French star, renowned for his speed and goal-scoring instinct, is a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s hopes to reach the final. His recent recovery from injury was closely monitored, and his starting spot is all but guaranteed.
The matchup carries extra weight for Mbappé, who spent seven years at PSG, winning multiple domestic titles but falling short in the Champions League. PSG fans are expected to greet him with a mix of admiration and rivalry. Mbappé’s presence alongside Gonzalo could be decisive in a game demanding focus and attacking efficiency.
Xabi Alonso’s approach
Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid’s head coach, has earned praise for managing a star-studded squad. Since taking charge, the Spaniard has instilled a dynamic style, with quick transitions and high pressing. His lineup decision for the PSG match will be pivotal, especially after Mijatovic’s comments.
- Alonso has tested lineups featuring Mbappé and Gonzalo as starters.
- Vinicius Júnior remains a leader in assists within the squad.
- Player rotation has been a hallmark of Alonso’s Club World Cup strategy.
- His faith in youngsters like Gonzalo underscores a commitment to renewal.
Known for his composure under pressure, Alonso hasn’t directly addressed Mijatovic’s remarks, but his track record in the tournament suggests he’s unafraid of bold moves. Whether he sticks with Vini Jr. or opts for Mijatovic’s suggested duo will be closely watched.
Reactions in the football world
Mijatovic’s comments sparked debate among pundits and fans. Former player and commentator Paulo Nunes defended starting Vini Jr. and Mbappé, calling Real Madrid a “juggernaut” with both on the pitch. For Nunes, Vinicius’s ability to unsettle defenses is crucial in high-stakes games like the PSG semifinal.
Conversely, some analysts see merit in Mijatovic’s tactical suggestion. Gonzalo’s consistency and Mbappé’s experience form a complementary pairing capable of exploiting PSG’s backline. The discussion highlights Real Madrid’s wealth of attacking options but puts pressure on Alonso to find the right balance.
The stakes of the semifinal
The Club World Cup, featuring the world’s top teams, is a global stage for players and coaches. The semifinal against PSG is more than a knockout match—it’s a chance for Real Madrid to reinforce its dominance in world football. The club, a multiple-time winner of the competition, aims to uphold its legacy in international tournaments.
PSG, meanwhile, enters the match with a bolstered squad and high motivation. The French side, blending young talent and seasoned players, seeks to upset Real Madrid and reach the final. The rivalry, fueled by Mbappé’s transfer, adds an extra layer of intrigue.
Vinicius’s performance in the Club World Cup
Despite Mijatovic’s critiques, Vinicius Júnior has delivered solid numbers this season. In the Club World Cup, he scored two goals and provided three assists in five matches, underscoring his importance to Alonso’s system. His dribbling flair and ability to set up teammates have made him a cornerstone of the attack.
Still, competition within the squad is fierce. Gonzalo’s rise and Mbappé’s return have expanded Alonso’s options, potentially leading to tactical shifts in big games. While benching Vini Jr., as Mijatovic suggested, isn’t ruled out, it hinges on the coach’s game plan.
What to expect from the matchup
The Real Madrid vs. PSG semifinal promises to be a football spectacle. On one side, Real Madrid’s attacking firepower, led by Mbappé, Gonzalo, and possibly Vinicius. On the other, PSG’s determination to make a statement on the global stage. Alonso’s lineup choice will be a defining factor, with Mijatovic’s words already fueling the conversation.
Set for July 2025, the match will draw a global audience and millions of viewers. Real Madrid fans expect another commanding performance, while PSG supporters dream of an upset. Regardless of the outcome, the clash will go down as a historic moment in the Club World Cup.
