Real Madrid faces a tough match in the Club World Cup quarterfinals. It will have to face Borussia Dortmund in the United States, in a clash that will kick off this Saturday, July 5 at 10:00 p.m. (Spain). If it wins, it will secure its place in the semifinals, where it will have to play against the winner of PSG/Bayern.
Looking ahead to the important clash against Borussia Dortmund, there's only one possible doubt in Xabi Alonso's line-up: Kylian Mbappé. He has only been able to play 22 minutes in one of the four matches played so far due to gastroenteritis he contracted at the start of the tournament. On the latest episode of El Chiringuito, Edu Aguirre spoke clearly, providing the latest update on his physical condition.
Mbappé: Ready for Dortmund
When asked about the condition of Real Madrid's striker, Edu Aguirre couldn't have been clearer: "I'm told Mbappé is at 100% and that he's almost certain to play against Dortmund".
In this regard, Mbappé would be fully recovered from the gastroenteritis that had left him physically weakened. It hasn't been an easy process, as he lost weight along the way. However, after a lot of work, he is now fully available for Xabi Alonso in the decisive phase of the Club World Cup.
Xabi Alonso's dilemma: Mbappé or...
Xabi Alonso faces an unexpected crossroads ahead of the Club World Cup quarterfinal against Borussia Dortmund. After recovering from a gastroenteritis that caused him to miss three of the previous four matches, Mbappé returned to the field to play 22 minutes in the last match. Although he is now recovered and physically renewed, his real condition would still raise some doubts.
In his place, Gonzalo García, who has emerged as the breakout striker of the tournament, has seized the opportunity: 3 goals and 1 assist in just 4 matches. He has shown boldness, mobility, and great finishing. His impact has fit perfectly into Alonso's attacking scheme, bringing freshness and courage to every play.
Xabi Alonso's decision is shaping up to be key for Real Madrid's journey. The international experience and talent of Mbappé versus the overwhelming form and spark of Gonzalo García. Whichever option is chosen, both have strong arguments. Will the coach forgo Mbappé's World Cup pedigree or continue with the unexpected dynamism of the young striker?
The final decision will be known shortly before the match, but two things are clear: total trust in both and a squad with quality finishing and scoring potential. The real question now is: which of the two does he want to use to scare Dortmund?