Kylian Mbappe (foto: Getty Images)
Kylian Mbappe has recovered from illness and may start against Borussia Dortmund in Saturday’s Club World Cup quarter-final. Xabi Alonso says Madrid's approach will depend on match context.
Kylian Mbappe is close to full fitness and could return to the starting lineup for Real Madrid in their Club World Cup quarter-final clash against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, but head coach Xabi Alonso remains cautious about confirming his plans.
The French superstar missed all three group-stage matches due to a stomach bug and returned only as a substitute during Madrid’s narrow 1–0 win over Juventus in the last round. With a semi-final place at stake, all eyes are on whether Mbappe will feature from the start.
"He's better, he's been recovering. Tomorrow morning we will decide if he starts," Alonso told reporters on Friday. "That doesn't necessarily mean Gonzalo (Garcia) has to drop out."
Gonzalo Garcia, 21, has impressed during Mbappe’s absence, scoring three goals in four matches. Alonso hinted that both strikers could start together if the match situation calls for it.
"They can play together, depending on the moment and the needs. They are complementary. If the context asks for it, I haven’t ruled it out by any means," the Spaniard added.
Alonso avoided revealing the starting XI ahead of the match at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, saying he wants the players "to know first" before the public does.
Rodrygo, who has struggled for form at the tournament, may remain on the fringes. Alonso confirmed the Brazilian winger is staying positive: "I spoke with him yesterday. He has a positive mentality. He's willing and ready when he's needed."
One player earning praise is Arda Guler. The 20-year-old playmaker had limited minutes under former coach Carlo Ancelotti but is now being given more responsibility.
"It’s the moment to invest in a process with Arda," said Alonso. "We’ll push him to develop and mature, but also accept that mistakes are part of that process."
Saturday’s quarter-final is a repeat of the 2024 UEFA Champions League final, in which Real Madrid defeated Dortmund 2–0 at Wembley. Dortmund may carry scars from that defeat, but they also bring experience against Alonso from his time managing Bayer Leverkusen.
Dortmund coach Niko Kovac praised Alonso’s influence on Madrid, noting similarities to the style used at Leverkusen: "You see a lot of Bayer Leverkusen at the moment in Real Madrid because he is implementing his style of football."
"He’s playing the same shape, but the quality of players is higher. In three weeks you can't change the world, but we've seen good stuff. It will be interesting, and hopefully we can compete."