Kylian Mbappe‘s recent return to the spotlight has stirred more concern than celebration. Real Madrid and its fanbase were hoping to see their star striker ready to make his mark at the FIFA Club World Cup, but images released this week have sparked alarm over his physical condition—snaps that suggest he is far from match-ready.
What initially appeared to be a routine illness has grown into a significant problem for both Mbappe and Real Madrid. Just before Los Blancos’ Club World Cup debut against Al-Hilal, Mbappe developed a high fever, later diagnosed as acute gastroenteritis. The virus progressed quickly and severely enough to require hospitalization in Florida, an unexpected twist for the club’s newly acquired talisman.
Real Madrid attempted to manage the situation discreetly. The club shared a video on social media showing the Frenchman engaged in light gym work, clearly trying to project calm. However, the footage backfired. Instead of reassurance, it generated a wave of concern from fans and pundits who noticed an alarming change in the striker’s physique.
Alarm bells over Mbappe’s physique
What the footage revealed was unmistakable: Mbappe looked thinner, visibly lacking in muscle mass and power, the very traits that define his playing style. Spanish outlet Marca later confirmed that the 25-year-old had lost 5 kilograms (11 pounds) during his bout with illness, dropping from his usual 75kg to around 70kg.
“Mbappe has been very affected,” the report stated. “He has not looked well in training.” The weight loss is so dramatic that even Vinicius Jr., another fleet-footed Madrid attacker, currently weighs more—around 73kg.
This has naturally thrown doubt over whether the 26-year-old star will be ready for Real Madrid’s next Club World Cup match against Salzburg, a crucial encounter in the tournament. The idea of rushing him back onto the pitch could be risky, particularly given the explosive style of play that makes him such a threat—and also requires him to be in top physical shape.
Real Madrid’s response and recovery plan
In response, Real Madrid’s medical staff and head coach Xabi Alonso have taken a cautious route. Mbappé is following an individualized recovery program—still training at Valdebebas but separated from the main group, focused on regaining lost strength and stamina.
According to Marca, “He’s closely monitored and on a strict diet and exercise plan to recover the weight and muscle tone lost.” The goal is to get him back to match fitness without risking setbacks, and there is no official timeline for his full return. What is clear, however, is that Real Madrid is not willing to gamble with their most valuable asset.
