Xabi Alonso Delivers Cryptic Two-Word Verdict on Mbappe's Madrid Derby Availability

Xabi Alonso Delivers Cryptic Two-Word Verdict on Mbappe's Madrid Derby Availability

Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso provided an evasive "we'll see" response when questioned about Kylian Mbappé's availability for the Spanish Super Cup semifinals.

The French forward, who sustained a knee problem during the winter break, was forced to observe from the sidelines as his squad delivered a commanding 5–1 victory against Real Betis on Sunday afternoon.

Real Madrid Castilla graduate Gonzalo García was selected in his absence, and the young striker secured a flawless hat trick that received thunderous applause from the supporters at the Bernabéu. Even Mbappé rose from his seat to acknowledge the academy product's outstanding display.

Nevertheless, Los Blancos remain anxious for their top scorer's comeback, particularly with the Supercopa rapidly approaching. Real Madrid are scheduled to face city rivals Atlético Madrid on Thursday night in Saudi Arabia.

Whether Mbappé will be fit enough to travel and possibly participate remains the pressing concern, with Alonso providing only this response: "We'll see, it depends on how he feels."

Mbappé tops the squad with 29 strikes in all tournaments this campaign. The France striker concluded 2025 by matching Cristiano Ronaldo's milestone for most goals netted (59) in a single calendar year by a Real Madrid player.

Real Madrid Focus Shifts to Upcoming Madrid Derby

Xabi Alonso

Regardless of Mbappé's participation, Real Madrid are traveling to Jeddah seeking complete vindication against Atlético. Diego Simeone's squad inflicted a humiliating 5–2 loss on them earlier this term, a result the 15-time European champions are determined to reverse.

"Now we must recuperate, take some time to recover and discover the strength that's difficult to regain following a match," Federico Valverde commented on Sunday afternoon. "We require it to enter the Super Cup, which holds great significance."

Alonso supported his captain's remarks. "Considering the forthcoming fixtures, the challenge will be intense. It begins shortly with the Super Cup."

If Real Madrid overcome their cross-town opponents, they will probably meet Barcelona, who clash with Athletic Club in their semifinal, for the Spanish Super Cup trophy. The possible El Clásico final would recreate last year's encounter, when the Catalans crushed Los Blancos 5–2.