Health Update on Kylian Mbappé
In a press briefing on Saturday, Xabi Alonso provided an update on Kylian Mbappé’s health as the forward recovers from a recent bout of gastroenteritis. Real Madrid is optimistic about Mbappé’s availability for their concluding group match at the Club World Cup against RB Salzburg this Thursday, especially after Alonso confirmed the player’s improvement following his hospitalization earlier this week.
Match Absence and Team Performance
Mbappé was notably absent from Wednesday’s match, where Real Madrid managed a 1-1 draw with Al Hilal in their first Group H fixture. Instead of joining his teammates in Charlotte, North Carolina, for their upcoming clash against Pachuca on Sunday, he remains at the training complex in Palm Beach, Florida. Alonso stated,
“Two days ago, he came back from the hospital. He’s recovering, and every day we’re more optimistic about getting him back for the last game against Salzburg.”
In the absence of the star French forward, 21-year-old Gonzalo García made his mark by scoring Madrid’s solitary goal against Al Hilal, which was ultimately equalized by Rúben Neves from the penalty spot. This Club World Cup is critical for Madrid as they look to recover from a lackluster season devoid of significant victories.
Coaching Insights and Squad Reinforcements
Alonso’s appointment as head coach came in the wake of Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, and the club has been proactive in bolstering its squad with the additions of Dean Huijsen and Franco Mastantuono, who will arrive in August. When asked about the need for further midfield reinforcements this summer, Alonso was firm in his response:
“We’re at the Club World Cup; we aren’t thinking about improving the squad right now. We’re focused on this competition. With our current players, we can field a robust midfield, and while there’s room for development, I have complete faith in their capabilities.”
Upcoming Match: Real Madrid vs. Pachuca
Looking ahead to Sunday’s encounter at Bank of America Stadium, which kicks off at 3 p.m. local time, the forecast predicts sweltering temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Madrid faces Pachuca for the second time since their recent 3-0 triumph in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final in December. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois expressed concerns over the scheduling of the match, suggesting that playing in such heat is not ideal for player welfare, stressing that evening games are more favorable during summer months in Europe, despite the logistical preferences for European audiences.
