greg . 2025-07-01 08:35:02

Kylian Mbappe set to make Club World Cup debut versus Juventus in timely uplift

Kylian Mbappe looks set to make his Club World Cup debut when his Real Madrid side face Juventus in the round of 16 at the Hard Rock Arena on Tuesday, in a major uplift for the 15-time European champions.

"It's a big possibility," Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso told a media briefing on Monday when asked if the France forward, who missed every three group matches with acute gastroenteritis, would feature.

Mbappe's return comes as Real Madrid look to build on a squad boosted by the recoveries of Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao.

"Pair Dani and Eder are coming back after a long recovery.

It's an advantage for them and the whole squad to feel they’re close and involved," Alonso said.

“At this decisive stage, everyone - starters and those supporting - has an important position.

”Alonso, who took over earlier this month, said the squad's priority was forging a collective identity.

"We want a squad that works as one, with the 11 stars fully committed, if we have the ball or never.

Our collective power will allow individual talents like Vinicius, Mbappe, Rodrigo, and Bellingham to shine," he added.

Juventus coach Igor Tudor, meanwhile, acknowledged the magnitude of the trial but insisted his side had come to compete, never sole to prepare for next campaign.

"We’ve got a top-level squad.

The stalemate wasn’t the best possible, but it must be accepted," Tudor told a media briefing.

“We have to believe, run a lot, sacrifice, make no mistakes, and also have a bit of luck.

I believe, the stars believe, and we’ll see what happens when the fixture starts.

"Xabi Alonso speaking to media ahead of Juve clashFRANCK FIFE / AFP / StatsPerformTudor praised Real Madrid’s recent tactical evolution under Alonso, comparing it to Alonso’s successful work at Bayer Leverkusen.

"Their last fixture looked a lot like what Leverkusen were doing - similar plays, systems, and style.

Xabi Alonso has quickly implemented these ideas,” he said, noting that Madrid still have "few weaknesses we can exploit.

"The winners will take on the victors of the duel between Borussia Dortmund and Monterrey, who will face off in Atlanta on Tuesday.

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