Quick Read
- Real Madrid faces Al Hilal in their FIFA Club World Cup opener on June 18, 2025.
- Kylian Mbappé’s availability is uncertain due to illness, as confirmed by coach Xabi Alonso.
- Alonso will make a last-minute decision on Mbappé’s participation in the Miami match.
As the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 kicks off, all eyes are on Real Madrid and their star-studded squad, led by newly appointed head coach Xabi Alonso. However, the team’s preparations for their opening match against Al Hilal on June 18 in Miami have been clouded by uncertainty surrounding Kylian Mbappé’s fitness.
Mbappé’s Illness Casts Doubt on His Participation
Real Madrid fans were left anxious after reports emerged that Kylian Mbappé missed training on Tuesday, June 17, due to a fever. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Alonso revealed that the French forward’s condition had improved slightly but not enough to ensure his participation in the opener. The final decision, Alonso noted, would be made on the morning of the match.
“Kylian was feeling a little better this morning, but not enough,” Alonso shared. “It’s very hot, and it was better for him not to train. We will wait until the last moment. Tomorrow morning, we will decide.” (Sports)
Mbappé’s potential absence is a significant concern for Real Madrid. The forward has been in scintillating form, claiming the Pichichi Trophy as La Liga’s top scorer with 31 goals during the 2024-2025 season. His dynamic play style and goal-scoring prowess are integral to Alonso’s vision for the team. The coach described Mbappé as “a dynamic striker, not positional,” emphasizing his ability to adapt and contribute across the front line (Worldsoccertalk).
Real Madrid’s Squad Faces Challenges
Mbappé’s situation isn’t the only hurdle Real Madrid faces. Other key players, including Antonio Rüdiger and Eduardo Camavinga, are also recovering from injuries. Alonso provided updates on their progress, noting that Rüdiger, who endured a grueling season, is making strides but remains a doubt for the match. Camavinga, meanwhile, is improving steadily but requires more time to regain full fitness (Sportsmole).
Despite these challenges, Real Madrid’s lineup still boasts immense talent. Trent Alexander-Arnold, a recent signing from Liverpool, is expected to make his debut at right-back. However, Alonso must carefully manage his squad, given the oppressive Miami heat and humidity, which have prompted the team to take extra precautions during training sessions.
Al Hilal: A Formidable Opponent
Real Madrid’s opening match pits them against Al Hilal, one of Saudi Arabia’s top football clubs. Al Hilal, under new head coach Simone Inzaghi, arrives at the tournament with a strong squad featuring stars like Aleksandar Mitrović and Sergej Milinković-Savić. This clash marks the second meeting between the two teams; the first was a thrilling 5-3 victory for Real Madrid in the 2023 Club World Cup final (Aljazeera).
For Al Hilal, this tournament represents an opportunity to elevate the Saudi Pro League’s global stature. The team’s journey to the Club World Cup was secured through their 2021 AFC Champions League triumph. With an ambitious roster and a desire to compete with Europe’s elite, Al Hilal is poised to challenge Real Madrid on the global stage.
A New Era Under Xabi Alonso
The match against Al Hilal also marks a significant milestone for Xabi Alonso, who takes charge of Real Madrid in his first major tournament as head coach. Alonso succeeded Carlo Ancelotti after a successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the team to a German league title. His appointment reflects Real Madrid’s confidence in his tactical acumen and leadership abilities.
Alonso has emphasized the importance of team cohesion and resilience, urging his players to “defend the badge” and maintain their hunger to win. “We must show self-love, that feeling of team, that defending the badge,” he stated. “The team already has it, but we have to work on it. We must be a team” (Sports).
As anticipation builds for the expanded 32-team Club World Cup, Real Madrid’s journey begins with both promise and uncertainty. Whether Mbappé takes the field or not, the team’s depth and determination will be tested against a formidable Al Hilal side.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, all eyes will be on Real Madrid’s final lineup. Will Mbappé’s illness sideline him, or will he rise to the occasion? One thing is certain: the stakes are high, and the world will be watching.