Kylian Mbappe will be absent from Real Madrid’s final Club World Cup group match following a recent health scare that required hospitalization. The French striker, who has been in impressive form this season, was admitted to a hospital in the United States after experiencing severe symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. He was later diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis an illness that leads to inflammation of the digestive tract lining, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
During his time in the Miami hospital, Mbappe endured a difficult recovery and reportedly lost nearly five kilograms (around 11 pounds) due to the effects of the illness. His weakened state meant he had to halt all team-related activities and focus on recovery. Although he has since been discharged, his return to competitive football will depend on how quickly he can regain full fitness.
Medical teams are closely monitoring his progress, and he has started some light training, including gym workouts and solo conditioning exercises. There is cautious optimism surrounding his return, as he has begun taking steps toward resuming normal routines. A recent social media post showed the forward enjoying a walk on the beach, a sign of positive momentum in his recovery.
The club has been investigating the source of Mbappe’s infection, with initial indications suggesting he may have contracted the virus before traveling to the United States. Reports indicate that while he initially trained without issue, his condition deteriorated rapidly after arrival at his hotel, suggesting he may have already been unwell before the trip. One prevailing theory points to the likelihood that he fell ill in Madrid, possibly during the virus’s incubation phase.
Real Madrid’s coaching staff is maintaining a cautious approach. The team’s head coach emphasized the importance of patience and a gradual return to full match fitness. While eager to have the star forward back on the pitch, the priority remains his health and long-term performance readiness.
As the Club World Cup progresses, the absence of one of the tournament’s most prolific scorers is a significant setback for the team. Nonetheless, his ongoing recovery efforts offer hope for a return later in the tournament or in upcoming fixtures, should his health improve in time.
