Real Madrid face a major setback ahead of their highly anticipated FIFA Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal, as star forward Kylian Mbappe is a major doubt due to illness. The French international, who has been in sensational form in La Liga, missed training on Tuesday due to a fever, sparking concerns over his availability.
The Club World Cup match between Real Madrid and Al Hilal is set to take place at the Hard Rock Stadium on Wednesday. Newly-appointed manager Xabi Alonso confirmed that a final decision on Mbappe’s participation will be made on the morning of the match.
Mbappe’s absence would be a big blow for Real Madrid, who rely heavily on the French striker, especially given the absence of backup forward Endrick due to injury. With Real Madrid aiming to maintain their dominance on the global stage, Mbappe’s fitness status becomes a crucial talking point.
Real Madrid vs Al Hilal: Club World Cup 2025 Match Details
- Fixture: Real Madrid vs Al Hilal
- Competition: FIFA Club World Cup 2025
- Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
- Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2025
- Real Madrid Manager: Xabi Alonso (debut match)
- Key Doubt: Kylian Mbappe (illness, fever)
- Backup Forward Status: Endrick (injured – leg muscle)
- Kylian Mbappe’s 2024/25 La Liga Goals: 31 goals
Mbappe Misses Training Ahead of Real Madrid vs Al Hilal Match
Kylian Mbappe, who led the La Liga scoring charts this season with 31 goals, missed Real Madrid’s final training session before the Club World Cup opener. The French star, who arrived at Madrid from PSG in a blockbuster summer move, is reportedly suffering from a fever.
Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso addressed the media, revealing, “Kylian Mbappe was a bit better this morning, but not fully fit, so we thought it best he skip training. We’ll assess him in the morning and take a final call.”
Alonso, set to make his managerial debut for Real Madrid in this match, emphasized the importance of team unity and defensive responsibility in the absence of key players.
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Real Madrid Face Forward Crisis as Endrick Also Sidelined
With Endrick not included in the squad due to a muscle injury picked up during a La Liga game against Sevilla, Real Madrid are left without a natural centre-forward if Kylian Mbappe fails to recover in time. The lack of depth in the attacking line could prove costly against Al Hilal, a side looking to cause an upset.
Real Madrid’s dominant run in Europe — winning five Champions League titles in the last ten years — makes them favourites for the Club World Cup title. However, any weakness in the squad, especially up front, could offer Al Hilal a rare opportunity to capitalize.
Al Hilal Ready to Test Real Madrid at Club World Cup
Al Hilal, who qualified for the Club World Cup by winning the AFC Champions League in 2021, are not to be underestimated. The Saudi Pro League giants have invested heavily in recent years and will view Mbappe’s potential absence as a window of opportunity.
Real Madrid may enter as favourites, but Al Hilal’s experience in high-stakes continental tournaments makes them a serious threat, particularly if Madrid are forced to reshuffle their attack.
Alonso Emphasizes Team Cohesion Ahead of Club World Cup Opener
Despite injury concerns, Xabi Alonso remains focused on the collective strength of his Real Madrid squad. “Defensive work is important. It’s one of the tasks we need to address in the short term, and in the long term, it will be decisive for our success,” said Alonso.
With the spotlight firmly on Kylian Mbappe’s condition, Real Madrid’s ability to adapt without their talisman will be tested as they begin their Club World Cup campaign against Al Hilal.