Real Madrid Injury Update: Xabi Alonso Faces Major Mbappé Dilemma Ahead of Madrid Derby in Riyadh
With the Madrid Derby looming in Riyadh, Xabi Alonso faces a massive decision on Kylian Mbappé's fitness. Discover the latest injury update, the "Plan B" replacement, and how the squad is rallying ahead of the Spanish Super Cup.
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Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso faces his first critical decision of 2026 as the team prepares to fly to Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup. The headline story remains the fitness of Kylian Mbappé, whose availability for the semi-final clash against Atlético Madrid hangs in the balance.
The "We’ll See" Waiting Game
Speaking after Sunday’s victory over Real Betis, Alonso remained coy about his star forward's chances. When pressed on whether Mbappé would board the flight to Jeddah, Alonso offered a cautious seven-word update: "We'll see; it depends on how he feels."
Mbappé is currently nursing a left knee ligament sprain suffered in late December. While the Frenchman is desperate to return, Alonso is careful not to let external pressure dictate his medical decisions. The manager has been vocal about protecting his squad recently, issuing a firm statement regarding media noise and rival comments to ensure the team stays focused on the pitch.
A Squad United Under Pressure
The stakes couldn't be higher. Real Madrid is set to face fierce city rivals Atlético Madrid on January 8 in Jeddah. Injuries often test a team's resolve, but the dressing room appears united. Key figures in the squad are stepping up, with Fede Valverde recently issuing a strong reply to doubts over the team's commitment during this difficult stretch of the season.
Alonso knows that risking Mbappé for a Super Cup fixture could jeopardize the club’s Champions League ambitions later in the year. However, he also knows Mbappé’s elite mentality. The forward has always been obsessed with silverware, previously noting that the hunt for major titles is "more than just a trophy", it is a defining mission for a player of his caliber.
The "Plan B" is Ready
If Mbappé doesn't travel, Alonso has a rapidly rising alternative. Youngster Gonzalo García has seized his opportunity with both hands. Fresh off a breakout 2025, where he finished as the FIFA Club World Cup Top Scorer, García proved his worth again this weekend with a match-winning performance against Betis.
The squad is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia within the next 24 hours. Fans are eagerly refreshing their feeds to see if the French superstar is captured stepping off the team bus at the airport. For now, Xabi Alonso is playing his cards close to his chest, but the clock is ticking on a final decision.
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