Mbappe’s Club World Cup Participation in Doubt

PALM BEACH GARDENS: Kylian Mbappe’s potential involvement in Real Madrid’s Club World Cup Group H match against Pachuca is uncertain. The forward did not participate in Saturday’s team practice session following a bout of illness, according to the club.

After receiving treatment at a Miami hospital earlier in the week for acute gastroenteritis, Mbappe remained at the team’s hotel. A Real representative confirmed he would not be traveling to Charlotte, North Carolina, for Sunday’s game.

Mbappe was absent from Real Madrid’s initial match against Al-Hilal, which concluded in a 1-1 tie. This result placed RB Salzburg at the top of the group standings with three points after their 2-1 victory over Pachuca from Mexico.

The player was hospitalized on Wednesday and subsequently discharged on Thursday, having been kept separate from his teammates since Tuesday.

Earlier in the week, a source from within the club suggested that Mbappe was unlikely to participate in any of the group stage matches at the Club World Cup.

However, Real Madrid’s coach, Xabi Alonso, indicated that Mbappe might be able to play in the final group match.

Coach Optimistic About Mbappe’s Return

“He is improving. It has only been a couple of days since his release from the hospital. His recovery is progressing, and with each passing day, our optimism grows regarding his availability for the upcoming match,” Alonso stated during the pre-match press conference.

Alonso also commented on the game plan for right winger Arda Guler, who he reportedly has a close relationship with.

“I want Arda Güler to operate in close proximity to the ball. He possesses unique qualities and consistently contributes to the team’s performance. He makes a difference.”