Football fans worldwide were left asking: “Why is Kylian Mbappe not playing today against Al-Hilal?” The French superstar and newly signed Real Madrid forward has been left out of today’s starting XI in the highly anticipated FIFA Club World Cup 2025 clash against Saudi champions Al-Hilal. According to official club sources, Mbappe suffers from a fever and missed the final training session before the match.
Kylian Mbappe Misses Final Training Before Al-Hilal Clash
Real Madrid confirmed that Mbappe did not participate in Los Blancos’ final training session due to an elevated temperature and mild flu-like symptoms. While his condition is not considered serious, the club’s medical team advised precaution.
“Kylian Mbappe was feeling under the weather with a mild fever. Although the situation isn’t serious, Real Madrid’s coaching and medical teams agreed it was best not to risk his participation,” a club official said.
The absence of the star striker is a major talking point, especially given the importance of the fixture in Real Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign.
Why is Kylian Mbappe not playing today against Al-Hilal and Real Madrid Opting for Caution
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti had hinted during the pre-match press conference that the team would closely monitor Mbappe’s health. While fans hoped to see the €200M signing feature against Al-Hilal, Ancelotti stressed that player safety is the top priority.
“Considering the extended nature of the tournament, Real Madrid is prioritizing Kylian Mbappe’s long-term condition to ensure he’s fully ready for the decisive stages. There’s no sense in risking his involvement while he’s not at his best.”
Real Madrid has chosen a conservative approach, hoping to have Mbappe fully recovered and ready for the more demanding stages later in the tournament.
How Real Madrid Will Line Up Without Mbappe
In Mbappe’s absence, Ancelotti is expected to start Rodrygo Goes and Vinicius Jr. as the attacking pair, with Jude Bellingham supporting from midfield. The young trio has proven reliable in recent matches and will be tasked with unlocking Al-Hilal’s disciplined defense.
Fans are also looking forward to potential substitute appearances from Joselu or Arda Guler, depending on the game’s tempo and situation.
Impact of Mbappe’s Absence on the Match
While Real Madrid remains a strong favorite against Al-Hilal, Mbappe’s absence is a psychological boost for the Saudi club. Al-Hilal’s defense, led by Ali Al-Bulayhi, will be relieved to face Madrid without the threat of Mbappe’s pace and finishing.
That said, Real Madrid’s squad depth ensures that they still enter the match with considerable firepower and control in midfield. The onus is now on Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo to step up in Mbappe’s absence.
Will Mbappe Return for the Next Match?
Real Madrid fans are eager to know whether Mbappe will return for the next round. As per sources close to the club, Mbappe is expected to recover in the next 24 to 48 hours, provided his condition doesn’t worsen. The club’s medical team will reassess his fitness before the next match and decide accordingly.
Given the packed Club World Cup schedule, having Mbappe fit and firing is crucial to Madrid’s title ambitions.
Final Thoughts
To answer the trending question, “Why is Kylian Mbappe not playing today?” – it’s due to a mild fever that led Real Madrid to rest him for precautionary reasons. While his absence is notable, it’s not alarming, and the decision reflects the club’s commitment to long-term performance and player welfare.
Madridistas will be hoping to see Mbappe back in action soon, possibly in the semi-finals or final of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.