MIAMI, FL – June 18, 2025 -French football superstar Kylian Mbappé was notably absent from Real Madrid’s final training session on Tuesday as the European champions prepared for their Club World Cup opener against Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal.
Under the blazing Florida sun, Los Blancos held a spirited open training session at their Miami base, but the club’s high-profile summer signing did not take to the field during the portion visible to the media. While no official explanation was given for Mbappé’s absence, his status for Wednesday’s match has now become a major talking point ahead of the team’s first group-stage clash in the newly expanded tournament format.
Real Madrid Set for Tournament Debut
Real Madrid, the most decorated club in UEFA Champions League history, enters the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup as one of the tournament favourites. The Spanish side qualified as winners of the 2024 UEFA Champions League and will face Asian Champions League winners Al Hilal at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Despite speculation surrounding Mbappé, Real Madrid’s squad appeared in high spirits as they ran drills, worked on tactical routines, and interacted with fans. Veteran stars such as Luka Modrić, Antonio Rüdiger, and Vinícius Júnior were seen taking part in the full session.
Speaking to the press after training, midfielder Brahim Díaz expressed confidence in the team’s ambitions, saying:
“Real Madrid is always a favourite because we have a lot of desire. As I always say, this is the best club in the world, so we want to win every competition in which we play. But there are great teams here, and we will have to compete very well to win the Club World Cup.”
Mbappé’s Status Uncertain
Mbappé’s absence has fueled fresh rumours over his fitness, although club officials have remained tight-lipped. The 26-year-old forward had reportedly completed training with the squad in recent days, but his no-show at the final session has led to questions over whether he will feature in Madrid’s opening fixture.
Since joining Real Madrid in a blockbuster transfer earlier this summer from Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappé has quickly become the face of the club’s next generation. His arrival was widely hailed by fans and pundits alike as the beginning of a new Galáctico era.
However, minor injury concerns during pre-season and ongoing adaptation to the squad’s tactical setup have slowed his full integration into the starting XI.
Al Hilal Eye Historic Upset
Real Madrid’s opponents, Al Hilal, come into the fixture with a strong squad featuring notable names like Kalidou Koulibaly, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Brazilian winger Malcom. Managed by Jorge Jesus, the Saudi side has gained significant experience playing on the international stage and will be aiming to cause a major upset in Miami.
The Club World Cup’s new 32-team format — a shift from its previous seven-club version — offers more competitive group-stage matches, giving clubs from all continents a legitimate shot at global glory.
Al Hilal’s players have been training intensively since arriving in the U.S. last week, and the squad remains confident despite facing one of the world’s most dominant teams.
“We respect Real Madrid, but we’re not here to just make up the numbers,” Al Hilal captain Salem Al-Dawsari told reporters. “We’ve worked hard to reach this level, and we believe in ourselves.”
Real Madrid Focused on Global Glory
Real Madrid is no stranger to international success, having previously won the Club World Cup a record five times. With the tournament now taking place during the summer rather than mid-season, it gives teams a fresh opportunity to showcase their strength before the start of domestic campaigns.
This year’s edition in the United States is also a key promotional step for FIFA’s ongoing efforts to globalize football’s reach and build anticipation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will also be hosted in North America.
For Real Madrid, the tournament is not just about adding another trophy to their collection — it’s also about building chemistry and rhythm ahead of a challenging La Liga and Champions League season.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti has emphasized the importance of squad depth, rotating players wisely, and giving emerging stars time to shine alongside established veterans. Mbappé’s role, whether he starts or is rested, will be carefully managed with an eye on long-term goals.
Media Speculation and Fan Reactions
While Real Madrid’s communications team has not issued a statement on Mbappé’s availability, Spanish and French media outlets have speculated that the player might be nursing a slight muscle strain. Others suggest it could be a precautionary rest, given the intensity of the training schedule and upcoming fixtures.
Supporters outside the stadium, many dressed in Mbappé jerseys, voiced hope that the Frenchman would feature at some point during the tournament.
“We came all the way from New York to see Mbappé play in person,” said Juan Carlos Mejía, a lifelong Real Madrid fan. “Even if he comes on for just a few minutes, it will be worth it.”
Match Details
- Fixture: Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal
- Competition: FIFA Club World Cup 2025 (Group Stage)
- Date: Wednesday, June 19, 2025
- Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida
- Kick-off Time: 8:00 PM (local time)
Real Madrid will look to begin their Club World Cup campaign on a strong note as they chase a record-extending sixth title, while Al Hilal aims to pull off what would be a sensational opening-round upset.
Conclusion
All eyes will be on the Real Madrid lineup announcement as kickoff nears — especially to see whether Kylian Mbappé makes the cut. Regardless of his inclusion, the Spanish powerhouse remains a formidable force and a favourite to lift the trophy. For fans across the globe, the clash between European and Asian champions promises to deliver thrilling football and set the tone for an exciting tournament ahead.
