Real Madrid started without Mbappé against al-Hilal. A remarkable absence … but explained. Here's why the French star missed this first game.
Wednesday evening, at the time when Real Madrid entered the club World Cup against Al-Hilal, a silhouette was sorely lacked on the lawn: that of Kylian Mbappé. Expected as one of the major attractions of the competition, the number 9 Madrid was not retained in the group by Xabi Alonso. An absence that immediately sparked many questions among Real supporters and followers.
Mbappé, a stroke of unvark fatigue
The reason for this non-conservation is simple: Mbappé has suffered from a feverish episode for two days. The tricolor striker did not take part in collective training on Tuesday, and his condition did not allow the medical staff to declare him fit. In front of Dazn's cameras, Xabi Alonso confirmed that the player had not “Not felt well in recent days”stating that he was ” logic “ to spare it. No injury therefore, only a precaution linked to a passenger virus.
An unexpected replacement in the tip
To compensate for this absence, the Madrid coach set up the young Gonzalo Garcia (n ° 30), associated with Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo on the attack front. If the choice has surprised, he also reflects Real's will to manage Mbappé with caution. The former Parisian remains a centerpiece of the project, and there is no point in forcing his return from the first match of a tournament which can still be long.
A return already scheduled for June 22
The staff wants to be reassuring: except for time, Kylian Mbappé should make his return this Saturday, June 22 for the second group meeting against Pachuca. The player himself hopes to be able to shine during this meeting, whom he considers a key step in his season. With 43 goals already registered all competitions,
The tricolor star wants to mark the tournament of his footprint.
An absence that does not change the plans
This setback is not dramatic for Real, nor for Mbappé. If frustration is real (especially for American fans) caution remains in order. The main thing is that it is ready for direct elimination meetings. What if this forced rest allowed Mbappé to be even more sharp in the coming matches?
