Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid’s star player, will miss the team’s debut in the 2025 Club World Cup against Al-Hilal, scheduled for Wednesday, June 18, at 4 p.m., at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. The French striker, sidelined by a fever, skipped the final training session and was ruled out by the medical staff, according to Spanish media. Coach Xabi Alonso, making his first official appearance as Real Madrid’s manager, chose young forward Gonzalo García to replace Mbappé in the attack alongside Vinicius Júnior and Rodrygo. Mbappé’s absence, combined with Brazilian Endrick’s injury, poses a challenge for Real Madrid in a competitive Group H that also includes Pachuca and RB Salzburg.
The news of Mbappé’s absence surprised fans, as he had trained normally earlier in the week. However, a fever reported on Monday night prompted the medical team to take precautions, especially given Miami’s high temperatures, exceeding 30°C with high humidity. The decision aims to protect the player’s health for upcoming matches in the tournament.
Real Madrid enters the competition during a rebuilding phase after an inconsistent season under Carlo Ancelotti. Xabi Alonso’s debut is seen as a turning point for the club, which seeks to reclaim its global dominance. The confirmed lineup features new signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen as starters, signaling the coach’s new tactical approach.
- Real Madrid’s key absences:
- Kylian Mbappé, ruled out due to fever.
- Endrick, injured, out for the entire tournament.
- Other injured players include Carvajal, Militão, Rüdiger, and Mendy.
- Alaba and Camavinga remain in recovery with no return date.
😎 ¡Nuestra llegada al estadio!@adidasfootball | #USPack pic.twitter.com/5eYMvTIsyT
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) June 18, 2025
Reaction to Mbappé’s absence
Mbappé’s absence sparked widespread reactions among fans and analysts. On social media, many expressed concern about Real Madrid’s reliance on the Frenchman, who scored 43 goals in 56 matches last season, setting a club record. Opting for 21-year-old Gonzalo García, a homegrown talent, is a bold move by Xabi Alonso, who aims to blend youth and experience in his debut.
In a press conference, Alonso praised the squad’s depth and expressed confidence in García. He also acknowledged Al-Hilal’s strength, highlighting players like Malcom, formerly of Corinthians, and their potent attacking trio, which scored 79 goals this season. The caution with Mbappé reflects concerns about physical strain, worsened by Miami’s hot climate.
Al-Hilal and the Saudi challenge
Led by Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, Al-Hilal is also in a phase of renewal. After Jorge Jesus’ departure, the Saudi club invested heavily in stars like Neymar, João Cancelo, and Malcom but failed to win the Asian Champions League or the Intercontinental Cup last season. Their attack, featuring Aleksandar Mitrovic, Salem Al-Dawsari, and Marcos Leonardo, is formidable, though Mitrovic is doubtful due to a thigh injury.
The rivalry between Real Madrid and Al-Hilal intensified after their 2022 Club World Cup final, where the Spanish side won 5-3, led by Vinicius Júnior. Wednesday’s match promises to be closely contested, with both teams relying on their attacks to overcome defensive uncertainties. Al-Hilal scored 145 goals this season, outpacing Real Madrid offensively, but faces the challenge of stopping Vinicius Júnior and Rodrygo.
Lineup and tactical strategies
Real Madrid’s lineup blends youth and experience. The defensive line, with Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, Asencio, and Fran García, will face a tough test against Al-Hilal’s fast attack. In midfield, Tchouaméni, Valverde, and Bellingham provide solidity and creativity, while the attack, without Mbappé, will rely on Vinicius Júnior’s speed and Rodrygo’s versatility.
Xabi Alonso, known for favoring a three-man defense at Bayer Leverkusen, opted for a four-defender setup to suit the available squad. The strategy will likely emphasize possession and quick transitions, exploiting the flanks with Vinicius and Rodrygo. Al-Hilal, under Inzaghi, favors a vertical approach, with Malcom and Al-Dawsari on the wings and Marcos Leonardo as the focal point.
- Real Madrid’s confirmed lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Courtois.
- Defense: Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, Asencio, Fran García.
- Midfield: Tchouaméni, Valverde, Bellingham.
- Attack: Rodrygo, Vinicius Júnior, Gonzalo García.
- Coach: Xabi Alonso.
Group H context
Group H is one of the most balanced in the Club World Cup. Alongside Real Madrid and Al-Hilal, Pachuca from Mexico and RB Salzburg from Austria complete the group. Pachuca faces Salzburg in the group’s other match at 7 p.m. at TQL Stadium in Ohio. Real Madrid will play Pachuca on June 22 in Charlotte and Salzburg on June 26 in Philadelphia.
Mbappé’s absence in the opener may shape Real Madrid’s strategy for upcoming matches, especially as they need points to reach the round of 16. The 32-team tournament is the most competitive in history, with clubs from all confederations vying for the title.
Mbappé’s history at Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappé joined Real Madrid in 2024 as the season’s biggest signing after years of speculation. In his debut campaign, he shattered records, finishing as La Liga’s top scorer with 31 goals and winning the European Golden Boot. His absence in the Club World Cup opener is a setback for the club, which relied on his goal-scoring prowess to kick off the tournament strongly.
The French captain has faced minor injuries this season but typically recovers quickly. The expectation is that Mbappé will be fit for the second match against Pachuca, though the coaching staff has not confirmed a return date.
Miami’s climate and medical precautions
Miami’s weather has been a concern for teams. With temperatures above 30°C and 75% humidity, the risk of dehydration and fatigue is high. Real Madrid’s medical team chose to rest Mbappé to avoid complications, especially after he canceled official commitments, including a Fifa photo session and a meeting with club president Florentino Pérez.
Other players, like Rüdiger and Camavinga, are also recovering but are unlikely to feature in the opener. The focus on player health underscores the tournament’s importance, marking a new chapter for Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso.
- Miami’s weather factors:
- Average temperature: 32°C.
- Humidity: 75%.
- High dehydration risk for players.
- 4 p.m. kickoff increases heat exposure.
Match expectations
Real Madrid’s debut against Al-Hilal is one of the most anticipated matches of the opening round. Live broadcasts on Globo, SporTV, and Globoplay, along with real-time coverage on sports portals, ensure high visibility. The recent rivalry, combined with the debuts of Xabi Alonso and Simone Inzaghi, adds unpredictability.
Real Madrid is favored, but Mbappé’s absence and defensive injuries could level the playing field. Al-Hilal’s prolific attack has the potential to upset, especially if they exploit Real Madrid’s backline. Vinicius Júnior’s performance, following his 2022 final heroics, will be pivotal.
Xabi Alonso’s new cycle
Xabi Alonso’s arrival at Real Madrid signals a new era. After a successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the Bundesliga, the Spanish coach is seen as the ideal leader for the club’s transition. His debut against Al-Hilal is a tough test, particularly without Mbappé and other key players.
Alonso introduced signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen and promoted youngsters like Gonzalo García. His faith in the academy, exemplified by Raúl Asencio, reflects his vision. The Club World Cup offers a chance for Alonso to establish his tactical identity and win over fans.
Tournament’s significance
The 2025 Club World Cup, with 32 teams, is the most competitive edition yet, enhancing its global appeal. Real Madrid, with nine world titles, aims for a tenth to cement its dominance. The tournament also marks Luka Modric’s farewell, as he plays his final competition for the club.
For Al-Hilal, the event is an opportunity to make history and overcome their 2022 loss. The Saudi side, backed by heavy investments, aims to prove it can compete with Europe’s elite. The clash with Real Madrid will gauge both teams’ potential.
