Xabi Alonso Reveals Kylian Mbappe's Availability for Crucial Alaves Clash
Kylian Mbappé has joined the Real Madrid traveling party for Sunday's clash against Alavés, though head coach Xabi Alonso declined to specify what involvement the French forward might have in the match.
Following a finger knock that he was initially expected to continue playing with, Mbappé subsequently suffered a muscle issue. He made the squad for the midweek encounter against Manchester City but remained on the bench as Los Blancos succumbed to an energetic 2–1 loss.
Mbappé won't face any time away from the matchday roster, staying with the team for Sunday's road trip despite suggestions that he hasn't yet participated in full training sessions with Alonso's group.
Alonso confirmed Mbappé's availability for selection but emphasized that any final choice regarding a possible return to Madrid's first eleven would be determined closer to kickoff.
"We have Kylian available, he's ready to feature and we'll decide [on Sunday]," Alonso stated. "It's positive news."
Injuries, Suspension Devastate Real Madrid's Backline
While an offensive injury may have captured media attention, Alonso's most significant challenge clearly lies in his defensive options.
As Alonso gears up for a fixture that could potentially determine his tenure at the Bernabéu, he has only three experienced defenders available—none of whom are natural fullbacks.
On the right flank, Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold are both sidelined, adding to the injury list that includes left-back Ferland Mendy and center-back pairing David Alaba and Éder Militão. Álvaro Carreras and Fran García are unavailable due to suspension.
Dean Huijsen, Raúl Asencio and Antonio Rüdiger represent the only senior defensive options for Alonso, with concerns still lingering about the latter's physical condition. To bolster the numbers, 18-year-old Joan Martínez and 19-year-old Víctor Valdepeñas have received call-ups to assist in what will be an improvised defensive setup.
"We supplement with academy players; when they step up, they bring quality to our sessions, and [versus Alavés] we'll field those who are healthy and those who can contribute," Alonso noted.