Mbappé Doubtful for Real Madrid's Club World Cup Quarterfinal Clash Amid Illness Recovery

Mbappé's Status Uncertain for Club World Cup Quarterfinal

Kylian Mbappé's availability for Real Madrid's crucial Club World Cup quarterfinal clash against Borussia Dortmund remains uncertain, according to coach Xabi Alonso. The French forward is still recovering from gastroenteritis, leaving his participation in Saturday's match in doubt.

Mbappé made his first appearance of the tournament on Tuesday, helping Real Madrid secure a 1-0 victory over Juventus and advance to the quarter-finals. He had previously missed the entire group stage due to his illness.

"He's getting better. He's been improving over the last three days," Alonso told reporters at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Friday. "Tomorrow morning we will be deciding if he will be part of the initial 11."

Mbappé's substitute appearance in the second half of the match against Juventus in Miami was met with enthusiastic applause, highlighting his global appeal at the tournament held in the United States.

Early in the tournament, Mbappé was briefly hospitalized and isolated from his teammates as he recovered from the illness.

In Mbappé's absence, Gonzalo García has stepped up, proving to be a valuable asset for Alonso's team. The 21-year-old academy graduate has impressed with three goals, including Tuesday's winner, and one assist during the competition.

"I think (Garcia and Mbappé) could complement each other and if it's something that is required, it's not something I'm going to turn a blind eye to," said Alonso, suggesting the possibility of the two players featuring together.

Real Madrid faces a strong Dortmund side in the quarterfinal. Dortmund secured their place in the final eight after overcoming a determined fightback from Monterrey, winning 2-1 earlier this week.

"Dortmund is a very good team. As soon as (coach Niko Kovac) was at the helm, they were growing and developing and on the rise," Alonso acknowledged. "We are facing a tough opponent... It's gonna be tight tomorrow."