Mbappé Benched as Real Madrid Face Juventus in Club World Cup Clash

Kylian Mbappé has been officially named on the bench for tonight’s highly anticipated clash between Real Madrid and Juventus in the Club World Cup. The French superstar, who joined Real Madrid earlier this summer, was expected to start after recovering from illness, but head coach Xabi Alonso has opted to ease him back into competitive action.

Mbappé had been sidelined for the group stages of the competition due to a stomach bug that affected his fitness and match readiness. He only resumed full training a few days ago, and while he looked sharp in sessions, the decision to bench him appears to be a precautionary one. Real Madrid will likely rely on their other attacking options to take control early in the match.

Xabi Alonso addressed the media earlier today, hinting that there was a “big possibility” Mbappé could feature, but did not confirm if he would start. It now seems the coach is planning to use him as a game-changer off the bench, especially if the match is tightly contested.

This approach could be a smart move given the intensity of knockout football.The starting role in the forward line has instead gone to Gonzalo García, who has impressed in Mbappé’s absence. García’s energy and creativity have helped Madrid progress to the round of 16, and this will be another huge opportunity for him to shine on the global stage.

All eyes will be on the Real Madrid bench as the game unfolds. If the match remains in the balance, Mbappé’s entrance could be the turning point. For now, fans will have to wait a bit longer to see their new star light up the tournament.