News

Kylian Mbappé sends three-word warning before Club World Cup debut with Real Madrid

Real Madrid leads Group H, but the question remains: will Mbappé feature in the final group-stage match against RB Salzburg, or will Xabi Alonso save him for the knockout rounds?
© Angel MartinezReal Madrid leads Group H, but the question remains: will Mbappé feature in the final group-stage match against RB Salzburg, or will Xabi Alonso save him for the knockout rounds?

Kylian Mbappé is back in action. After being sidelined with gastroenteritis upon arriving in the United States, the French superstar has resumed training with Real Madrid as he targets his first appearance in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Mbappé was hospitalized shortly after landing and missed the Spanish club’s opening two matches of the newly expanded tournament. Without their marquee forward, Real Madrid opened their campaign under new manager Xabi Alonso with a 1–1 draw against Al Hilal and a 3–1 win over Pachuca.

Mbappé shares positive update

Now discharged and reunited with the squad in Miami, Mbappé shared an uplifting update on social media. The 26-year-old posted a training photo with the caption: “Back at it!”

For Real Madrid, it’s a welcome sight to see their star forward on the pitch just days after being hospitalized. For upcoming opponents, it’s a clear warning—Mbappé is on the way back.

Kylian Mbappé’s stellar season leading into Club World Cup

Although his start in Madrid wasn’t explosive, Kylian Mbappé quickly made up for lost time. The Frenchman ended the 2024–25 season with 43 goals in all competitions, including 31 in La Liga. That earned him the Pichichi Trophy as the league’s top scorer—only the fourth player in Real Madrid history to do so in his debut season. He also captured the European Golden Boot for his efforts.

Will Mbappé play against RB Salzburg?

As Group H leaders, Real Madrid have already put themselves in a strong position. But the question remains: will Kylian Mbappé be ready to play in the group stage finale against RB Salzburg, or will he wait for the knockout rounds?

Regardless of when he returns, Mbappé’s availability is a massive boost for Los Blancos. His debut at the FIFA Club World Cup is one of the most anticipated moments of the tournament—and could tip the scales in Real Madrid’s favor moving forward.

200+ Channels & Local Sports
  • Price: Plans starting at $14.99/mo (Latino)
  • Watch Ligue 1, Copa Libertadores & World Cup Qualifiers
Every MLS Match in One Place
  • Price: $12.99/mo (Now included with standard subscription)
  • Watch every MLS regular season game, Playoffs & Leagues Cup
Many Sports & ESPN Originals
  • Price: $11.99/mo (or ESPN Unlimited for $29.99/mo)
  • Features LaLiga, Bundesliga, FA Cup & NWSL
2,000+ Soccer Games Per Year
  • Price: Starting at $8.99/mo
  • Features Champions League, Serie A & Europa League
Home of the Premier League
  • Price: Starting at $10.99/mo
  • 175+ Exclusive EPL matches per season

EDITORS’ PICKS