Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe is facing a fitness concern ahead of their opening match in the Club World Cup against Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Hilal on Wednesday, having missed training on Tuesday due to illness.
The club reported that Mbappe has been experiencing a fever, and newly-appointed manager Xabi Alonso, who will take charge for the first time during Wednesday’s clash, mentioned that a decision regarding his appearance will be made in the morning.
“Kylian felt slightly better this morning, but he still wasn’t at full fitness, so we thought it was best for him to sit out of training,” Alonso commented during a press conference prior to the fixture at the Hard Rock Stadium.
“We’ll monitor his condition and make a last-minute call,” he added.
The prospect of Mbappe being unavailable presents Alonso with a selection challenge, as the French star is currently the sole recognised centre forward in the team.
Teenage Brazilian sensation Endrick, who could have offered an alternative option, did not make the trip due to a muscle injury sustained during Real’s LaLiga match at Sevilla last month.
This season, Mbappe has been a key player for Real Madrid, netting 31 goals in LaLiga since his notable transfer from Paris St Germain during the summer.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Mbappe’s availability, Alonso emphasised the need for his side to work together defensively.
“Defensive efforts are crucial. This is an area we need to focus on in the short term, and in the long run, it will be key to our success,” the Spaniard asserted.
Real Madrid are considered one of the frontrunners in the tournament, having dominated European football over the past decade, claiming five of the last ten Champions League titles.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal secured their entry into the competition by winning the AFC Champions League in 2021 and will be keen to exploit any vulnerabilities in the Madrid line-up.
Real and Al Hilal have been placed in Group F alongside Mexican team Pachuca and Austria’s RB Salzburg.
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Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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