Xabi Alonso Unsure When Mbappé (Knee) Will Return

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso expressed uncertainty over Kylian Mbappé's return timeline during a news conference, following the French star's left knee sprain sustained in training on Wednesday. The injury, confirmed by the club's medical team after tests, rules out the 27-year-old for a minimum of three weeks, potentially sidelining him for up to five or six crucial matches.[1][2][3]

Mbappé, Real Madrid's talismanic forward since joining from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, has been pivotal with 73 goals in 83 appearances. His absence creates a significant void in the attack, especially amid a grueling schedule.[1] Alonso highlighted the challenge, noting the team's stretched resources with other injuries plaguing the squad.[1][2]

The games Mbappé is confirmed to miss include the La Liga clash against Real Betis on January 4 at home. He is also doubtful for the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Atlético Madrid on January 8 in Saudi Arabia, and a potential final against Athletic Club or Barcelona on January 11.[1][2][3] Additional fixtures at risk are the La Liga match versus Levante and the Champions League last-16 first leg against Monaco, with a projected return around the January 25 home game against Villarreal, pending medical clearance.[1]

Alonso faces mounting pressure in 2026, as Real Madrid battles for silverware in La Liga, the Super Cup, and Champions League. The injury compounds defensive woes: Dani Carvajal recovers from knee surgery until later in the year, Eder Militão battles a hamstring issue for 3-4 months, Trent Alexander-Arnold is out until February with a thigh strain, and Brahim Díaz is away at the Africa Cup of Nations.[1] Despite playing through pain recently, Mbappé now requires careful monitoring to avoid further damage—no surgery is needed.[2][3]

The setback has cast a shadow over Real Madrid's campaign start, testing Alonso's tactical acumen and squad depth at a critical juncture.[5]

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