Alonso Says Mbappe Will Be Ready for Match Against Man City

Kylian Mbappe will not participate in Real Madrid’s final Club World Cup group match against RB Salzburg, as he continues to recover from a stomach illness. Despite his absence, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso remains optimistic that Mbappe will be fit and ready to play if the team advances to the knockout stage, where they could potentially face a tough opponent like Manchester City. Mbappe, who has been sidelined due to acute gastroenteritis, returned to training earlier on Wednesday. However, Alonso emphasized that it was important not to rush him back into action for the upcoming match, prioritizing his full recovery instead.

During a press conference held at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Alonso shared updates on Mbappe’s condition. “It was his first day wearing boots again and doing some light running, and he looked good,” Alonso said. “But he’s not fully recovered yet. We talked after training, and he agreed it’s better to rest and focus on getting fully fit. If we move into the round of 16, he’ll be ready to play. Right now, he’s still in the recovery stage and not in perfect shape for tomorrow’s match.” This cautious approach highlights the team’s focus on long-term fitness rather than risking further injury or setback by forcing a premature return.

Mbappe’s recent health issues have caused him to miss two key matches for Real Madrid already. Last week, he was treated in a Miami hospital and was absent from the team’s 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal and their 3-1 win over Pachuca. Notably, Real Madrid managed the victory against Pachuca despite playing most of the match with only 10 men, showcasing the squad’s resilience even without their star forward. Currently, Real Madrid sits atop Group H with four points, narrowly leading RB Salzburg on goal difference. Al-Hilal follows with two points, while Pachuca remains without a point in the group stage standings.

Alonso, who recently took over as Real Madrid’s coach following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure to manage the Brazil national team, laid out the team’s objectives for their upcoming match against Salzburg. “First, we want to win and finish top of the group. Second, we want to keep improving as a team before the knockout rounds,” Alonso stated. His focus on both securing victory and continual team development underscores a balanced approach—winning matches while building cohesion and form ahead of the more challenging knockout phase.

Despite the looming possibility of facing Manchester City in the round of 16, Alonso insisted that the team is not looking too far ahead at this stage. “It’s not smart to think about the math tomorrow,” he said. “Our focus is on finishing first and giving everything we have. We are playing to win.” This mindset reflects the coach’s emphasis on taking one game at a time and maintaining a winning mentality without distraction.

The Club World Cup presents a critical opportunity for Real Madrid to demonstrate their strength on the international stage, and having Mbappe back at full fitness could significantly boost their chances. His dynamic style of play and goal-scoring ability make him a key player for the team’s ambitions. However, the priority remains clear: his health and readiness to contribute effectively in the knockout rounds.

As the tournament progresses, Real Madrid’s ability to adapt and perform without their star player will be tested, but the presence of a committed and focused squad, guided by Alonso’s strategic leadership, offers confidence. The upcoming match against RB Salzburg is not only crucial for topping the group but also serves as a preparation platform for the challenges ahead. With Mbappe’s return anticipated soon, Real Madrid looks poised to mount a strong challenge for the Club World Cup title, balancing patience with ambition in pursuit of glory.