Why is Kylian Mbappe not Playing Today in Real Madrid vs Pachuca Club World Cup 2025 Match?

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Real Madrid's quest for global supremacy at the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup 2025 has hit an early snag, as their marquee forward Kylian Mbappe remains unavailable for the group-stage encounter against Mexican side Pachuca.

Fans and pundits alike have eagerly awaited the French superstar's debut on the global stage with Los Blancos. However, just two games into the campaign, Mbappe's absence has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation. The reality, however, is more mundane but no less concerning: the Frenchman is recovering from a sudden illness that forced him to the sidelines just days before the tournament began.

Why is Kylian Mbape not playing against Pachuca Today?

Kylian Mbappe was hospitalized in Miami on June 18 after experiencing symptoms consistent with acute gastroenteritis, including vomiting, diarrhoea, and high fever. While his condition was not deemed critical, the episode was severe enough to warrant immediate medical intervention. After spending a night under observation, he was discharged and returned to Real Madrid's training base.

Although he has reportedly improved, club medical staff and head coach Xabi Alonso have taken a cautious approach, opting not to rush the 26-year-old back into action. As of today, Mbappe remains isolated at the team hotel and has not rejoined full training.

He had already missed Madrid's Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal, and his absence against Pachuca marks his second consecutive match on the sidelines. The club has made it clear that Mbappé will not travel for this fixture, emphasizing the importance of a full recovery over short-term gains. Alonso, speaking to the media, stated that while the forward is "doing better," he will only be considered for selection once he completes his recovery protocol and regains match fitness.

There is growing optimism that the Frenchman could feature in the final group game against Red Bull Salzburg on June 26, or be reserved entirely for the knockout stages depending on the team's progression.