Kylian Mbappe has rejoined Real Madrid training ahead of their crucial Club World Cup clash against RB Salzburg. The French forward had been sidelined due to acute gastroenteritis, which even led to a brief hospitalization in Miami last week. His return is a significant boost for Real Madrid as they prepare for the decisive Group H match.
Mbappe's illness forced him to miss Real Madrid's first two games of the Club World Cup. He was absent for the 1-1 draw against Al Hilal and the subsequent 3-1 victory against Pachuca. Real Madrid currently tops Group H with four points, closely followed by RB Salzburg, who also have four points but a lesser goal difference. Al Hilal remains in contention for the knockout phase with two points.
The match against RB Salzburg is scheduled to take place on June 26 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. This game will determine which team secures the top spot in Group H and advances directly to the round of 16. A win or even a high-scoring draw would be sufficient for Real Madrid to claim the top spot.
Mbappe's return to training suggests he is likely to feature in the game against Salzburg, however, his fitness levels remain a concern after his bout with gastroenteritis, during which he reportedly lost 5kg. Whether he will be at 100% remains to be seen, but his presence on the field will undoubtedly provide a significant lift to the team.
Real Madrid manager, Xabi Alonso, is preparing the team meticulously for this crucial week. The team has been focusing on both fitness and tactical consistency. The conditions in the United States, including the heat and pitch quality, present challenges, but Alonso aims to ensure the team is well-prepared to face a strong opponent in the next round, potentially Juventus or Manchester City.
In Mbappe's absence, other players have stepped up. Gonzalo Garcia has impressed with his hold-up play and ability to bring teammates into the game. Arda Güler has also shown promising signs. However, Mbappe's return adds another dimension to Real Madrid's attack, and his potential partnership with players like Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham is eagerly anticipated.
RB Salzburg, known for their energetic, young squad, will be aiming to cause an upset. They are seeking revenge for their previous encounter with Real Madrid in the Champions League, where they were defeated 5-1. A draw would be enough to keep them alive in the competition.
Real Madrid will be without Raúl Asencio, who was sent off in the previous match. Antonio Rüdiger, recently recovered from a knee injury, is expected to take his place in defense. Eduardo Camavinga is also doubtful after missing training sessions. The likely starting XI includes Courtois, Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Fran García, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Bellingham, and Vinícius.
The match promises to be a thrilling encounter with high stakes. The winner will not only secure a place in the next round but also gain extra rest days, which are crucial in a demanding tournament like the Club World Cup. Real Madrid, considered one of the frontrunners for the title, cannot afford to slip up as they aim to reach the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
