Alonso Gives Update on Mbappé Ahead of Juventus Club World Cup Tie

The air in Miami is thick with anticipation as Real Madrid prepares to face Juventus in the FIFA Club World Cup round of 16. All eyes are on the Hard Rock Stadium, not just for the clash between two European giants, but for the potential debut of Real Madrid's summer marquee signing, Kylian Mbappé. The French superstar has been notably absent from Real Madrid's three group-stage matches due to a bout of acute gastroenteritis that even saw him hospitalized. His return to full fitness and, more importantly, to the pitch, has been the subject of intense speculation, and now, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has offered a highly encouraging update.
Speaking to the assembled media on Monday, just hours before the crucial knockout tie, a composed yet clearly excited Alonso addressed the persistent questions about Mbappé's availability. "Kylian is doing well now and we are speaking every single day," Alonso stated, a clear indication of the close monitoring and communication between the player and the coaching staff. He further elaborated, "We will talk to him in the morning to make the final decision. It's a big possibility that he makes his Club World Cup debut, though. I don't know how much, but it's a big possibility." These words, delivered with a measured optimism, sent ripples of excitement through the football world. The mere "big possibility" of Mbappé gracing the Club World Cup stage has transformed the narrative surrounding the match.
Mbappé's absence from the initial group stage games was a significant blow to the tournament's star power, especially considering FIFA President Gianni Infantino's ambition for the expanded Club World Cup to become one of the sport's biggest events. With Lionel Messi and Inter Miami already eliminated, the return of a player of Mbappé's caliber would inject a much-needed dose of global appeal and excitement. His prolific scoring record from last season, where he netted 42 goals, underscores the attacking prowess he brings to any side.
However, Alonso's enthusiasm is tempered with a clear sense of caution. Mbappé was discharged from the hospital only last week and, despite being back in training, he was not even named as a substitute for Real Madrid's final group game, a 3-0 victory against RB Salzburg. This suggests a careful management of his recovery, ensuring he is not rushed back too soon and risking a relapse. While the "big possibility" of his debut is thrilling, it's widely expected that if he does feature, it might be off the bench, allowing him to gradually re-acclimatize to competitive play. The club's medical team has cleared him for selection, a crucial step, but the final decision on his playing time, and indeed, his participation, rests with Alonso after the morning's final assessment.
The strategic implications of Mbappé's potential return are significant for Real Madrid. Alonso, in his third week as Real Madrid's coach, has been experimenting with formations, notably deploying a fluid 3-5-2 against Salzburg with considerable success. If this formation is retained, the most obvious role for Mbappé would be alongside Vinícius Júnior upfront. The prospect of this dynamic duo leading the line is undoubtedly enticing for Madridistas, offering an unparalleled blend of pace, skill, and goal-scoring threat. However, the pressing game, a crucial aspect of modern football, could present a challenge. Both Mbappé and Vinícius have, at times, been criticized for their less-than-fervent defensive contributions, and a savvy Juventus side could exploit any such laxity.
Alonso acknowledged the multifaceted challenges of his new role at Real Madrid. "Every single match is now all or nothing," he stated, highlighting the high stakes of the knockout stages. He added, "I am pumped, very excited, but there are so many things that you have to manage—footballers, so many people, based on trust for the future. We are spending a lot of time together, so that's helping us speed up the process. So far it has been very challenging. With such an intense competition in a short time, to be able to build our principles, it's challenging. We are building connections in these early stages, but we are reaching a moment where we have to do it tomorrow." His words paint a picture of a coach deeply immersed in shaping his new squad while navigating the immediate demands of a high-pressure tournament.
Beyond Mbappé, Real Madrid has received further good news on the injury front, with the defensive duo of Dani Carvajal and Éder Militão also fit and available for selection. Their return will provide a significant boost to Real Madrid's backline, which has relied on new signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen in the earlier stages. Carvajal, a veteran presence and captain, expressed his readiness, stating, "I could be on the bench at the disposal of the manager, so I'm very happy about that."
Juventus, having finished as runners-up in their group after a 5-2 loss to Manchester City, will be a formidable opponent. Despite the heavy defeat to City, Juventus displayed their attacking prowess by scoring 12 goals in their three group games. Real Madrid will need to be wary of their offensive capabilities, even if they were outplayed by the reigning champions. The stage is set for a captivating encounter, with the potential return of Kylian Mbappé adding an extra layer of intrigue to what promises to be a thrilling Club World Cup showdown. The "big possibility" of seeing him in the iconic white shirt, finally making his competitive debut, is enough to electrify fans worldwide and underscore the immense star power that he brings to Real Madrid and the sport as a whole.
Source@Pulse Sports