Kylian Mbappe has been one of the biggest names at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, but his absence so far has become a major talking point, raising concern among fans. Now, with Real Madrid set to play in the round of 16, head coach Xabi Alonso has addressed the French star’s condition—and whether he’ll finally make his debut.
After finishing atop Group H with 7 points from 9, Real Madrid are preparing to face Juventus at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, with kickoff set for 3 PM ET. With Mbappe missing all three group stage matches, fans are eager to see whether he’ll take the field in the tournament’s knockout rounds.
In Monday’s press conference, Alonso provided an encouraging update on the striker’s status: “Kylian is doing well. We talk every day, he’s feeling much better, and tomorrow morning we’ll talk again to make the final decision.”
Back on June 19, Real Madrid released a statement confirming that Mbappe was suffering from an acute case of gastroenteritis and had been hospitalized for testing and treatment. Now fully recovered and back in training with his teammates, speculation continues to grow around his potential debut.
Asked directly whether Mbappe will play against Juventus, Alonso didn’t hold back. “It’s a big possibility that he makes his debut in the Club World Cup tomorrow. I don’t know how much, but it’s a big possibility,” Alonso said.
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Mbappe’s role under Xabi Alonso
One of the criticisms leveled at Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid last season was the lack of defensive commitment from the attacking line—particularly from Vinicius Junior and Mbappe. That concern resurfaced when Alonso took the reins, as his tactical philosophy is rooted in collective discipline and work rate.
When asked about Mbappé’s role under his leadership, Alonso was unequivocal: “He’s already a leader because of his impact and influence. About his role, we need everyone to be committed to the collective idea, to enjoy whatever role they have — whether we have the ball or not — and those on the field have to live up to that, whether it’s Kylian, Dean (Huijsen), Aurélien (Tchouaméni), Dani Ceballos — all the players. The level of expectation is the same for everyone.”
