The good news is that Kylian Mbappé is officially present. The shocking news is that he will not start against Manchester City tonight.Real Madrid confirmed the French superstar was included in the 25-man squad list, but manager Xabi Alonso made the dramatic decision to bench the forward for the crucial Champions League Matchday 6 clash at the Santiago Bernabéu. This choice follows days of speculation, limited training, and a critical physical assessment, placing the risk of a long-term injury above the immediate need for a victory.
The Squad Inclusion: A Psychological Lift
Mbappé's inclusion, despite missing Tuesday's open training session and dealing with discomfort in his left thigh and a fractured finger,was a significant psychological victory for the club.
He is Present: Just seeing his name on the team sheet provided a major lift for the Bernabéu crowd and put Pep Guardiola's defensive planning under immediate scrutiny.
The Injury Dilemma: For several days, the forward had been dealing with a knee issue and muscle discomfort.
While the medical team cleared him to be involved in the squad, the high-intensity nature of a Champions League clash against Manchester City was deemed too much for his current condition.
Alonso’s Calculated Risk: Protection Over Pressure Xabi Alonso, who is himself facing intense pressure and rumors of an imminent sacking following a run ofpoor domestic results, made the cautious choice.
Avoiding Disaster: The biggest fear within the Madrid hierarchy was that playing Mbappé from the start could worsen his muscular issues, sidelining their $250 million investment for months. Alonso chose to protect the club's future over the pressure of the moment.
The Substitution Option: By having Mbappé on the bench, Alonso retains a nuclear option. Should Real Madrid need a goal in the second half, the forward can be introduced to provide a match-winning moment without enduring the full 90 minutes of high-intensity running and tackling.
Starting XI: In Mbappé's place, the attack is led by Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Gonzalo García,
forcing the team to find goals through fluidity rather than relying on the French star's individual brilliance.
The Ultimate Show of Trust
This decision is a huge show of faith in the rest of the squad. Alonso is essentially challenging Jude Bellingham, Vinícius, and Rodrygo to deliver in his absence.
While the presence of Mbappé on the bench is a relief, the fact remains that Real Madrid is without their 25-goal top scorer for the kickoff of their most important game of the season. Against an in-form Manchester City side, relying on a half-fit superstar from the bench is the ultimate high-stakes gamble.
Was Xabi Alonso right to bench Kylian Mbappé, or should he have risked him from the start in such a crucial game?