Real Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign hit a snag as Kylian Mbappé was hospitalized with a severe case of gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as stomach flu. The French striker missed the team’s opening match on Wednesday—a surprising 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal in Miami—due to a persistent fever.
Head coach Xabi Alonso confirmed that Mbappé was in “rough shape” and had been unable to train for several days. With his condition now requiring hospitalization, his involvement in the rest of the monthlong tournament in the U.S. is uncertain. Madrid is scheduled to face Pachuca in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Sunday.
The club said Mbappé would undergo medical tests and receive the appropriate treatment. Gastroenteritis, which typically causes symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, can take several days to fully recover from.
Mbappé’s absence is a significant setback not only for Madrid but also for FIFA’s ambitions to position the Club World Cup as one of soccer’s premier global events. After Lionel Messi, Mbappé is among the most prominent names in the tournament, and expectations were high with Madrid considered one of the top contenders for the trophy in this newly expanded format.
Over 62,000 fans at Hard Rock Stadium were disappointed by his absence, missing a rare chance to see the global star play in the U.S. Madrid also felt his absence on the pitch, struggling to overcome Al Hilal and failing to convert a last-minute penalty.
The match marked Xabi Alonso’s first game as Madrid’s head coach, following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti to manage Brazil. Despite being heavy favorites, Madrid looked unconvincing in the first half and had to settle for a draw. Alonso called for patience as he settles into his new role.
“We know this is going to take time,” Alonso said.
Mbappé, 26, had a stellar debut season with Real Madrid after transferring from Paris Saint-Germain, scoring 43 goals in 56 appearances. His latest health issue comes nearly a year after he broke his nose during the European Championship and wore a protective mask to continue playing.
His status for the next stages of the Club World Cup remains uncertain, casting a shadow over Madrid’s pursuit of the title.
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