Xabi Alonso sees Mbappé ready to shine in the Club World Cup quarterfinals
Kylian Mbappé is back and just in time for Real Madrid’s biggest test yet.
After missing the group stage due to gastroenteritis, Mbappé made a cautious return in the round of 16 against Juventus. Though he only featured in the second half, Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso saw enough to believe that the Frenchman is primed for a breakout performance in the Club World Cup quarterfinals against Borussia Dortmund.
“Day by day he will improve, and by the quarterfinals, he should be in much better condition,” Alonso said in a press conference. “We’re monitoring him closely the expectation is positive for the decisive duel.”
The Mbappé Question: Starter or Super Sub?
With Gonzalo García lighting up the tournament scoring three goals in just four appearances the pressure is on Alonso to make a high-stakes decision: stick with the in-form youngster or bring back his global superstar from the start?
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García scored the lone goal in Madrid’s 1–0 win over Juventus, proving once again why legends like Benzema and Raúl have praised him publicly. His emergence has turned Madrid’s attack into a dynamic puzzle and one that could either explode or evolve in Saturday’s showdown.
Quarterfinal Showdown: Real Madrid vs Borussia Dortmund
Real Madrid will face Borussia Dortmund this Saturday (July 5) at 5 PM (Brasília time) in New Jersey. It’s a rematch of the 2023/24 Champions League final, where Los Blancos lifted the trophy with a 2–0 win at Wembley, thanks to goals from Carvajal and Vini Jr.
Dortmund, however, are not to be underestimated. After edging Monterrey 2–1 in the round of 16, the German side despite some key absences showed defensive grit and tactical discipline.
Real Madrid: A Perfect Storm of Talent
With solid wins over Pachuca, RB Salzburg, and now Juventus, Madrid heads into the quarterfinals brimming with confidence. Alonso’s squad boasts a near-perfect blend of youthful fire and veteran calm, making them clear favorites but far from complacent.
The question on everyone’s mind?
Will Mbappé steal the show or will García keep writing his own legend?
