Xabi Alonso (foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Xabi Alonso has not ruled out using Kylian Mbappé in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, even with a painkilling injection, but insists Real Madrid will only take a “controlled risk” with their injured star.
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has not ruled out the possibility of Kylian Mbappé playing in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, even if that means doing so with the help of a painkiller injection.
The French superstar has been struggling with knee problems since early December and later aggravated the injury in training. For a long time, it seemed almost certain that he would miss the tournament in Saudi Arabia, but his decision to travel with the squad on Friday has revived hopes that he could feature in the final.
Mbappé has been directly involved in more than half of Real Madrid’s goals this season, which makes his availability a huge topic ahead of El Clasico.
“He’s much better,” Alonso explained. “The initial idea was that he would only be ready for the Atlético game, so we didn’t want to rush him. But if we reached the final, everything depended on how he felt. After today’s training session, we’ll have all the information to assess whether he’s ready to start or maybe play fewer minutes.”
When asked directly whether he would allow Mbappé to play with the help of an injection, Alonso made it clear that Real Madrid will not gamble blindly.
“You have to measure the risk, know what’s at stake and take responsibility. We’re not kamikazes. If we decide to do it, it will be a controlled risk,” the Real Madrid coach said.
Barcelona, injuries and a different context
Real Madrid recently beat Barcelona 2-1 in La Liga, but Alonso does not believe that match should be used as a reference.
“The context is different. The match will have different phases. Confidence and energy will be key,” he explained.
Madrid are once again dealing with several injury problems, which has even led to the return of former club doctor Niko Mihič. Still, Alonso insists that the club’s long-term vision will not change because of short-term difficulties.
“We don’t work on the basis of ups and downs. The goal is to be competitive throughout the season,” he stressed.
Now everything depends on Mbappé’s final medical assessment — and whether Real Madrid decide that the risk of using their biggest star in El Clasico final is one worth taking.