Sun Jun 22 10:40:35 UTC 2025: ## Mbappe’s Club World Cup Debut Delayed by Illness

**Miami, FL** – Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe is set to miss his second consecutive match at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States due to gastroenteritis. The star player was hospitalized earlier in the week with a high fever and illness, diagnosed as gastroenteritis, forcing him to sit out Real Madrid’s opening game against Al Hilal and now Sunday’s match against Pachuca.

“Our player Kylian Mbappe is suffering from an acute case of gastroenteritis and has been admitted to hospital in order to undergo a series of tests and follow the appropriate course of treatment,” Real Madrid said in a statement.

While Mbappe has since been discharged from the hospital and returned to the team’s training ground, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso confirmed he would not be fit to play. “He [Mbappe] is better,” Alonso said, “It’s been two days since he came back from hospital. He’s recovering, and day by day.”

Mbappe’s absence has allowed Gonzalo Garcia from Real Madrid’s second team to step up, scoring in their 1-1 draw against Al Hilal. Alonso has praised Garcia’s performance and indicated he would start again against Pachuca.

There is some optimism surrounding Mbappe’s potential return for Real Madrid’s final group game against FC Salzburg on Thursday in Philadelphia. Alonso hinted at his possible inclusion, stating, “We’re increasingly optimistic about him for the next match.”

The French captain’s presence would be a major boost for Real Madrid as they aim to top Group H and advance to the knockout stages. If Real top Group H, they will play their first knockout game against the runners-up of Group G on July 1 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. If they finish second in the group, Real will play the winners of Group G at the Camping World Stadium in Orlando on June 30.

Notably, this is Mbappe’s first appearance at the Club World Cup, as his former clubs, Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco, never qualified for the tournament during his tenure. While Real Madrid boasts a record five Club World Cup titles, they are eager to have their star Frenchman available as they seek to add another trophy to their illustrious collection.

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