Xabi Alonso Discusses Kylian Mbappe's Fitness Ahead of Spanish Super Cup Final

Alonso on Mbappe's Fitness

Real Madrid's head coach, Xabi Alonso, indicated that he might consider a cautious approach regarding Kylian Mbappe's fitness as they prepare for the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona this Sunday. However, he emphasized that he would not take reckless risks.

The French star missed the semi-final match against Atletico Madrid on Thursday but traveled to Saudi Arabia on Friday to rejoin the team ahead of the Clasico in Jeddah.

Mbappe is currently recovering from a knee sprain sustained in late December, which was initially expected to require three weeks for recovery.

Cautious Decision-Making

When asked if the forward, who has scored 29 goals this season, could play with the aid of painkillers, Alonso stressed the importance of careful decision-making. He stated, "This is a choice we must make collectively with the staff, players, and medical team."

He added, "We need to assess the risk, understand our current situation, and determine what we are competing for before making any decisions. We are not reckless in our approach; it’s about taking a controlled risk."

Positive Progress for Mbappe

Alonso noted that Mbappe's condition has improved significantly after he missed the previous weekend's victory over Real Betis and the derby against Atletico.

"He is feeling much better now; he wasn't quite ready to face Atletico, so we opted not to rush his return," the coach explained.

"If we reach the final, we will evaluate his condition during training today to see if he can start or play a limited role."

Winning the Super Cup would mark Alonso's first trophy since taking over at Madrid last June and would alleviate some pressure from his position.

The coach faced potential dismissal towards the end of 2025 due to a string of poor performances, but the team has since won their last five matches.

"Projects require time... we are evolving in our football style, emotionally, and in team spirit," Alonso remarked.

"We feel a strong connection with the players, and matches like these can significantly influence the remainder of the season."

Mbappe Recognized as the Best

Barcelona's coach, Hansi Flick, acknowledged Mbappe as the standout player but expressed confidence in his team's ability to perform well despite his presence in Saudi Arabia.

"Currently, Mbappe is the best striker... he has scored numerous goals and is a world-class talent," Flick stated.

However, he reminded everyone that his team had triumphed over Mbappe's Madrid in all four encounters last season.

Barcelona defeated Madrid 5-2 in last year's Spanish Super Cup final and also won both La Liga Clasicos and the Copa del Rey final.

In their only match against Alonso's squad this season, Madrid managed a 2-1 victory.

"How many Clasicos have we played in the last year and a half? And how many did we win? We lost just one," Flick noted.

"I recognize he is an exceptional player, especially when he has space behind the defense... We will adjust our strategy as needed, but our focus is on Real Madrid and how we intend to play against them."