Club World Cup: Why did Kylian Mbappe miss Real Madird's game against Al-Hilal?

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Jun 19, 2025, 22:01 IST

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Real Madrid's star player, Kylian Mbappe, has been hospitalized in the United States due to acute gastroenteritis. He missed the Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal, Xabi Alonso's debut as head coach. While Mbappe's return date is uncertain, 21-year-old Gonzalo Garcia started the game vs the Saudi club and scored in the Frenchman's absence.

Club World Cup: Why did Kylian Mbappe miss Real Madird's game against Al-Hilal?

Kylian Mbappe missed Real Madrid's game vs Al-Hilal in the Club World Cup (Image via Getty Images)

Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe has been hospitalized in the United States due to an acute case of gastroenteritis, the club confirmed on Thursday. The French forward missed Real Madrid’s Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal, which ended in a 1-1 draw, marking Xabi Alonso’s first match as head coach.“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 an official statement.Mbappe, 26, had been feeling unwell in the days leading up to the match in Miami, with Alonso noting earlier that the striker was "feeling a little better" but still not fully fit. He also missed training on Tuesday with a fever and in his absence during the game on Wednesday, 21-year-old Madrid B-team player Gonzalo Garcia started and scored the opening goal against the Saudi Arabian side.

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Real Madrid’s next fixture in Group H is scheduled for Sunday, June 22, against Mexican club Pachuca in Charlotte. The recovery timeline for gastroenteritis varies, and it remains uncertain if Mbappe will be available for that match.

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Mbappe finished last season as the European Golden Shoe winner, netting 31 goals in La Liga during his debut campaign with Los Blancos, though the club ended the season trophyless. His health and availability will be closely monitored as Real Madrid aims to progress in the Club World Cup.

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TOI Sports Desk

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