The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 has already delivered some electrifying moments, and now all eyes are on the blockbuster quarterfinal between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund on July 5 at the iconic MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. But there’s one burning question on every fan’s mind—will Kylian Mbappé finally start?
Mbappé’s Road to Recovery
The 26-year-old French superstar was ruled out of the group stage due to a nasty bout of gastroenteritis that even landed him in the hospital. He missed all three games against Al Hilal, Pachuca, and RB Salzburg, much to the disappointment of Madridistas eagerly waiting for his debut in the Club World Cup.
But there was a glimmer of hope in the round of 16.
Mbappé finally made his first appearance in the tournament during Madrid’s narrow 1-0 win over Juventus on July 1 in Miami. Coming off the bench in the 68th minute, he looked sharp—completing 16 of his 17 passes and creating two solid chances. He didn’t score, but it was enough to remind everyone what he’s capable of.
What Xabi Alonso Said
Since then, it’s been a waiting game. Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has been careful not to rush his star man back into the starting XI. At a press conference on July 4, Alonso gave fans a sliver of hope:
“He’s getting better. He’s been improving over the last three days. Tomorrow morning we will be deciding if he will be part of the initial 11.”
In other words—Mbappé is close, but it’s not a done deal just yet.
Is Mbappé Starting or Not?
According to Spanish outlets like @elchiringuitotv and @MadridUniversal, Mbappé is likely to start. He’s reportedly been going all-in during training sessions, even getting into a fiery exchange with Alonso during one of them—a sign of how badly he wants to be on that pitch from the first whistle.
Still, Alonso isn’t one to bow to reputation. Nico García has been in excellent form in Mbappé’s absence, and with the sweltering U.S. summer heat in play, the coaching staff might be cautious about starting Mbappé if he’s not fully match-fit.
