Why Isn't Kylian Mbappe Starting Tonight For Real Madrid Vs. Juventus?

After Al Hilal shocked Manchester City, Juventus now looks to pull off an all-time upset against Real Madrid. Surprisingly, Xabi Alonso left Kylian Mbappé out of the starting lineup, opting instead to start Gonzalo.

Mbappé hasn’t played in the Club World Cup so far. Following a long season where he scored 43 goals in 56 appearances during his first year with the club, the star striker may not be at full strength. Real Madrid is also dealing with other injuries and player fatigue.

Xabi Alonso’s first three games in charge have been a success. He’s implemented a more possession-based style, emphasizing short passes and control — a shift from Carlo Ancelotti’s more direct approach, which relied heavily on quick balls to Vini Jr., Rodrygo, or Mbappé. Alonso still uses those weapons, but integrates them more methodically, much like he did as a player.

Mbappé, who joined the club in 2024 and leads the team in goals this season, appears to still be recovering from an infection.

Why isn’t Kylian Mbappé starting for Real Madrid vs Juventus?

The club announced that Mbappé is being treated for “an acute case of gastroenteritis.” Coach Xabi Alonso spoke ahead of the match and addressed the situation:

“We’ll talk to him in the morning to make the final decision. There’s a big possibility he makes his Club World Cup debut tomorrow. I don’t know how much, but it’s a big possibility.”

Ultimately, Mbappé is not in the starting XI Gonzalo García will lead the attack — at least for the first half. Mbappé is on the bench and available if Alonso decides to bring him on.

While Real Madrid is usually the favorite in international competitions, this year’s Club World Cup has two other clubs seen as more likely to win the title.