MIAMI (BN24) — Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé has been hospitalized with an acute case of gastroenteritis, casting doubt over his continued participation in the Club World Cup in the United States, the club announced Thursday. The French international was absent from Real Madrid’s tournament opener against Saudi club Al Hilal on Wednesday, where the Spanish giants were held to a surprising 1-1 draw at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Mbappé had reportedly been suffering from a high fever and was unable to travel with the team for their opening match. Real Madrid confirmed that he would undergo medical tests and begin an appropriate treatment plan. Coach Xabi Alonso had initially expressed optimism that the World Cup-winning striker might be ready for Sunday’s match against Mexico’s Pachuca, but his hospitalization has cast serious doubt on his availability.
The absence of one of the sport’s biggest stars has dealt a blow to FIFA’s ambitions for the newly expanded Club World Cup. President Gianni Infantino has positioned the monthlong tournament as a marquee global event, aiming to rival the prestige of the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League. With Lionel Messi not participating, Mbappé is widely regarded as the tournament’s standout attraction, and his unavailability diminishes the tournament’s star power.
A crowd of more than 62,000 had filled the stadium on Wednesday, many hoping for a rare opportunity to see Mbappé play live in the United States. Instead, they witnessed Real Madrid stumble without their talisman, managing only a draw against the underdog Saudi side.
Gastroenteritis, often referred to as stomach flu, is typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and recovery times vary depending on severity. While not generally serious, the illness can significantly weaken even elite athletes, particularly in a condensed and physically demanding tournament setting.
Mbappé’s health setback comes almost exactly one year after he suffered a broken nose during the European Championship, an injury that forced him to wear a protective face mask throughout the remainder of that competition.
Real Madrid remains among the favorites to win the Club World Cup, but Mbappé’s uncertain status raises questions about the team’s attacking potency in upcoming matches.
