Real Madrid have named Kylian Mbappé in their squad for Wednesday’s Champions League showdown against Manchester City, despite earlier doubts over his fitness.
The French forward, 26, was absent from Tuesday’s open training session, with Spanish media reporting that he is dealing with a fractured finger as well as a knee issue. His inclusion will come as a major boost for head coach Xabi Alonso, who enters the match under significant pressure.
Madrid have won just one of their last five La Liga matches, leading to increased scrutiny around Alonso’s position. BBC Sport’s Guillem Balague has suggested that Alonso’s chances of remaining in charge are “slim,” and that a defeat at the Bernabéu against City (20:00 GMT) could be decisive for his future — despite his tenure only beginning this past summer.
Mbappé remains a key figure for Los Blancos, scoring 25 goals across La Liga and the Champions League this season. However, he was unable to find the net in Madrid’s recent home defeat to Celta Vigo on Sunday.
All eyes now turn to the Bernabéu, where Madrid’s star forward could play a crucial role in what might be a defining night for both the club and their manager.
