Mbappe Doubtful for Real Madrid’s Club World Cup Opener

Real Madrid’s preparations for their Club World Cup opener have hit a snag as star striker Kylian Mbappe is a major doubt for the Group H clash against Saudi Arabian champions Al Hilal. The French forward missed training due to illness, and new head coach Xabi Alonso has admitted that a final decision on Mbappe’s availability will only be made on match day.

Mbappe’s Fitness in Question

Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid in a high-profile move, was expected to lead the attack in the tournament opener at the Hard Rock Stadium. However, illness kept him off the training pitch in the build-up to the match, raising concerns about his readiness.

“Kylian was feeling a little better this morning, but not enough. It’s very hot and it was better that he didn’t train. But we will wait until the last moment. Tomorrow morning we will decide,” Alonso told reporters, highlighting the uncertainty around his star striker.

More Injury Worries for Real Madrid

It’s not just Mbappe who is a concern for Alonso. Defender Antonio Rudiger and the versatile Eduardo Camavinga are also likely to miss the opener due to fitness issues. Rudiger, who has played through pain for much of the season, is close to a return but remains a doubt. Camavinga is improving but still needs more time to recover.

“Rudiger made a brutal effort this season and I don’t know if he will be called up tomorrow, but he is progressing well and will be the first to return. Camavinga is also improving quickly, but he needs time,” Alonso explained.

Facing Al Hilal’s New-Look Side

Real Madrid’s opponents, Al Hilal, are also entering a new era. Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, fresh from leading Inter Milan to the Champions League final, takes charge of the Saudi side for the first time. With no previous matches under Inzaghi, Real Madrid face an element of the unknown.

“We have to prepare for the game in the best possible way. They will be a tough opponent, without a doubt. But it’s time to focus on ourselves. They haven’t made their debut with Inzaghi yet, so we don’t know how they will play,” Alonso said.

Alonso’s First Test as Real Madrid Coach

The match marks Xabi Alonso’s debut as Real Madrid head coach, adding extra pressure to an already challenging fixture. The Spanish legend is tasked with blending new signings and established stars while navigating injuries and the expectations of the Madrid faithful.

Alonso spoke about the need for unity and hunger in the squad:

“We have to have hunger to win, to compete, to want to play well. We have to mix a lot of things, but that self-love, that feeling of team, that defending the badge… The team already has it, but we have to work on it. We must be a team.”

Squad Updates: Competition and Versatility

Alonso also addressed competition for places, especially at right-back, where Dani Carvajal faces a challenge from new arrival Trent Alexander-Arnold. The coach praised both players for their quality and adaptability, noting that Trent’s flexibility will be an asset.

“It is a privilege to have such top players. Trent is more flexible in positions, but Carva has a lot of personality and competitiveness. The initial impact of Trent has been very good,” Alonso said.

He also highlighted Jude Bellingham’s potential in central midfield, suggesting the young Englishman could be more effective in a deeper role:
“Jude has the ability to cover a lot of the pitch. He has the soul of a midfielder, he likes to participate, but he has the great quality to arrive. The important thing is the starting point. Finding him in the right places is going to help us because he has impressive qualities.”

A Farewell to Luka Modric

Alonso will also have the chance to work briefly with veteran Luka Modric, who is set to leave the club soon. The coach praised Modric’s influence on younger players and his lasting legacy at Real Madrid.

“It’s easy with him. We always had a great relationship, friends and now coach-player. I like his relationship with the younger ones, he is a very good influence. We want to enjoy him in these weeks. He’s a player of the era, being able to squeeze him a little more will be a luxury,” Alonso said.

Looking Ahead

With Mbappe’s participation in doubt, Real Madrid fans will be anxiously awaiting the final squad announcement. Alonso’s debut, the challenge of facing a new-look Al Hilal, and the absence of key players make this Club World Cup opener a true test for the Spanish giants.

As Alonso summed up, “We must be a team.” The coming match will show whether Real Madrid can rise to the challenge and start their Club World Cup campaign with a win, even if their biggest star is forced to watch from the sidelines.

Stay woke. Stay tuned. Stay with AKEWE NEWS.