Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has offered a glimmer of hope that Kylian Mbappe could yet feature in this week’s Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia, despite the superstar missing Sunday’s win over Real Betis with a knee issue.
Mbappe sat out the 4-1 victory after aggravating a knee problem in the final matches of 2025. Initial reports suggested he’d miss the trip entirely, but Alonso struck a more optimistic tone post match. “He has options, he is not ruled out,” the manager confirmed. “We are going to wait until Tuesday to see how they feel.”
The situation in midfield looks clearer. Aurelien Tchouameni, who was substituted against Betis, is “fine” according to Alonso and is definitely travelling. “No matter what, he’s going to go to Saudi Arabia,” he stated.
Mbappe’s absence was barely felt at the Bernabeu, as 20 year old Gonzalo Garcia stepped off the bench to net a stunning hat trick. That performance throws up a welcome headache for Alonso, who now must juggle four elite forwards Mbappe, Garcia, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Junior.
“It’s my decision,” Alonso said of the selection puzzle. “There are many games, we will have to see the moments and the needs. Nothing should be ruled out.” He added that he believes Mbappe and Garcia can play together, hinting at potential tactical shifts.
The news is a major boost for a Real Madrid side that has underwhelmed somewhat under Alonso so far. Mbappe has been their undisputed player of the season, but Garcia’s explosion proves the squad has devastating depth in attack.
All focus now shifts to Thursday’s Super Cup semi final against Atletico Madrid in Riyadh. Having Mbappe available, even off the bench, would be a huge psychological lift as Alonso seeks his first trophy in charge. If he misses out, the dazzling form of young Gonzalo Garcia means Madrid’s firepower is far from diminished. A good problem to have, but a tricky one to solve.
