Kylian Mbappe Sidelined: The Real Reason Behind His Absence from Real Madrid's Clash Against Al Hilal

Real Madrid must face Al Hilal in their opening match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup without star striker Kylian Mbappé.

The French superstar will be absent from Xabi Alonso's managerial debut due to illness. Mbappé was unable to participate in Los Blancos' final practice session before the game after developing a fever.

Despite initial hopes that he might recover sufficiently to appear as a substitute, Real Madrid have decided not to take any chances with their marquee player. Mbappé will be relegated to spectator status as his teammates begin their FIFA Club World Cup journey at Hard Rock Stadium.

Mbappé's absence creates a significant void in Real Madrid's offensive lineup. The 26-year-old netted 43 goals during his remarkable first campaign in the famous white jersey, claiming both the Pichichi Trophy and European Golden Boot honors.

With the star forward unavailable, Alonso has chosen to deploy 21-year-old Gonzalo García in the striker position. The Real Madrid Castilla graduate has featured in only six senior matches but has already contributed one goal and one assist.

Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo round out Alonso's attacking trio, while recent acquisitions Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold have been selected for defensive duties. This revamped Real Madrid squad aims to overcome Simone Inzaghi's Al Hilal and launch Alonso's tenure with a victory.

The positive development for Los Blancos is that Mbappé is expected to be fit for their encounter with Pachuca on Sunday, June 22. In the meantime, the responsibility falls on Vinícius Júnior, García, and Rodrygo to step up in his absence.