Why is Kylian Mbappé not playing today in Real Madrid vs. RB Salzburg for the Club World Cup?
Kylian Mbappé was expected to make his long-awaited debut at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in Real Madrid’s decisive Group H clash against RB Salzburg. But as kickoff approached, the French superstar was left out of the matchday squad—sparking concern and confusion among fans eager to see him in action.
Mbappé had been sidelined in the lead-up to the tournament due to an acute case of gastroenteritis. The illness ruled him out of Real Madrid’s first two group matches. Though he returned to light training earlier this week in Palm Beach and even joined full sessions with his teammates, the 25-year-old forward wasn’t deemed physically ready to compete at full intensity.
What did Xabi Alonso say about Mbappé’s absence?
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso addressed the situation prior to the game. “We’ll wait until the last moment,” he said on Wednesday, leaving the door open for a late inclusion. But after a final assessment by the coaching and medical staff, the decision was made to keep Mbappé on the sidelines and prioritize his recovery for the knockout stages. With tougher opponents ahead, Madrid’s staff saw little reason to risk aggravating the star’s condition.
How is Real Madrid positioned heading into the match?
Los Blancos enter the final group match level on points with RB Salzburg, each sitting at four. However, Real Madrid hold a slight edge on goal difference. A draw with goals or a win would secure the top spot in the group and set up a more favorable matchup in the Round of 16. Without Mbappé, rising talent Gonzalo García is expected to lead the line once again, offering Madrid an injection of youth and energy up front.
Thursday’s matchup in Philadelphia marks the end of the group stage and the beginning of the tournament’s most intense phase. For Mbappé, the wait to debut at the Club World Cup continues. But should Real Madrid advance as expected, the French phenom may still have the chance to make a defining impact in the matches that matter most. Fans will be hoping his tournament starts just as the real show begins.