Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe was sidelined for the team’s upcoming Club World Cup match against Pachuca in Charlotte due to gastroenteritis but could return for the final group game, coach Xabi Alonso confirmed on Saturday.
The French forward was hospitalised on Thursday for tests and treatment before being discharged. A club source told AFP that Mbappe is gradually recovering, though he did not travel with the squad for Sunday’s fixture against the Mexican side.
During a pre-match press conference, Alonso updated on Mbappe’s condition. “He’s doing better, he’s back from the hospital and is recovering. We’re optimistic about having him against Salzburg,” the coach said, referring to the final Group H match in Philadelphia on Thursday.
Mbappe, 26, had already missed Real Madrid’s opening game due to the same illness, in which the team drew 1-1 with Al-Hilal, marking Xabi Alonso’s debut as coach.
In Mbappe’s absence, 21-year-old Madrid B-team player Gonzalo Garcia started and opened the scoring against the Saudi Arabian side. Alonso praised Gonzalo’s performance and hinted he would likely start again against Pachuca.
“Gonzalo can do what he did the other day. He scored a goal and had three chances. Having players with that sense of smell is very important. He did very well,” Alonso said.
Mbappe finished his first season at Real Madrid as the European Golden Shoe winner with 31 La Liga goals and 43 in all competitions. However, despite his prolific scoring, Los Blancos ended the season trophyless.
