Mbappé in doubt: Will he play against Dortmund in the Club World Cup?

Mbappé in doubt for Real Madrid’s key match

Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has sown uncertainty about Kylian Mbappé’s participation in the next quarter-final match of the Club World Cup against Borussia Dortmund. The French striker is still recovering from gastroenteritis, which casts doubt on his presence in the starting eleven. Mbappé, who made his debut in the tournament on Tuesday, contributed to Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Juventus, a result that secured their place in the next phase. However, his physical condition remains a concern.

“It’s improving. He has been progressing in the last three days,” Alonso told the media on Friday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. “Tomorrow morning we will decide if he will be part of the starting eleven.”

Xabi Alonso

Mbappé came on as a substitute in the second half of the match against Juventus in Miami, where the Spanish team won 1-0. His entrance to the field generated a great ovation, demonstrating his enormous popularity worldwide.

In the absence of Mbappé, Gonzalo García has taken on an important role in the team, standing out with three goals, including the winning goal on Tuesday, and an assist. Alonso has recognized García’s potential.

“I think (García and Mbappé) could complement each other and, if necessary, it’s not something I’m going to turn a blind eye to,” Alonso declared.

Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid will face a Borussia Dortmund in good form on Saturday, after the German team beat Monterrey 2-1 this week to secure their place in the quarter-finals.

“Dortmund is a very good team. As soon as (coach Niko Kovac) took over, they grew and developed and were on the rise,” Alonso stated. “We are facing a tough opponent… Tomorrow will be a close match.”

Xabi Alonso