Xabi Alonso explains Mbappe’s absence in final Club World Cup Group H match

Real Madrid coach, Xabi Alonso, revealed the reason behind Kylian Mbappe’s absence in the final Group H match of the 2025 Club World Cup against RB Salzburg.

The French national team captain — who recently recovered from gastroenteritis — was not included in the squad list for the match, despite returning to team training.

“We don’t want to take any risks as he has just recovered. Mbappe will be fully ready when the team plays in the round of 16,” Alonso stated during the press conference.

Mbappe’s current absence completes his non-appearance in the previous two matches — when Madrid drew 1-1 against Al Hilal and won 3-1 over Pachuca.