Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe has been hospitalised with an acute case of gastroenteritis.
The club made the confirmation earlier today, Thursday June 19, 2025.
This has casted doubt over his participation in the remainder of the Club World Cup in the United States.
It would be recalled, that the 26-year-old forward missed Madrid’s opening match against Saudi side Al Hilal in Miami on Wednesday due to a fever.
His condition has since worsened, leading to his admission to a local hospital where he will undergo further tests and begin treatment.
“Mbappe will undergo a series of tests and follow the appropriate course of treatment,” the club said in a statement.
Coach Xabi Alonso had initially expressed hope that the French star would be fit to return for the next fixture against Mexican club Pachuca on Sunday.
However, the latest development places his availability in serious doubt.
Major Blow for Madrid and the Tournament
Mbappe’s absence is a significant setback not only for Real Madrid, one of the tournament favorites, but also for FIFA’s ambitions to elevate the Club World Cup into a globally prestigious event.
This year’s edition, hosted in the U.S., marks the start of a rebranded format that FIFA president Gianni Infantino hopes will eventually rival the UEFA Champions League in stature and financial impact.
With Lionel Messi absent from the competition, Mbappe is arguably its biggest draw.
His presence was highly anticipated by American fans, with over 62,000 people in attendance at Hard Rock Stadium on Wednesday night.
However, they were left disappointed as Mbappe sat out Madrid’s 1–1 draw with Al Hilal.
A History of Setbacks
The illness comes almost exactly one year after Mbappe suffered a broken nose during the European Championship.
He famously played on in that tournament wearing a protective face mask, showcasing his dedication and resilience.
This latest setback, while unrelated, adds another chapter to his recent history of unfortunate interruptions during major competitions.
Gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as stomach flu, is typically caused by viral or bacterial infections.
It can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and dehydration, all of which can severely impact a player’s fitness and performance levels.
Next Steps and Uncertainty
Real Madrid’s medical team is closely monitoring the situation.
While mild cases of gastroenteritis can clear up within days, the club has not confirmed a timeline for Mbappe’s return.
For now, fans and teammates alike must wait and hope that the superstar forward recovers quickly.
Real Madrid’s next match is scheduled for Sunday, and should they progress, the team could play up to four more matches throughout the month-long tournament.
Mbappe’s condition will likely be reassessed daily as the team looks to remain competitive without one of their brightest stars.
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