Real Madrid dealt major blow as World-Cup-winner doubtful for 2025 FIFA Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal

Real Madrid may be forced to begin their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign without the presence of their marquee signing, Kylian Mbappe. The French World Cup winner was absent from team training on Tuesday due to a fever, according to a Real Madrid spokesperson speaking with USA TODAY Sports.

Xabi Alonso to address the media

Newly appointed Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is scheduled to speak at a press conference Tuesday afternoon, where he is expected to provide an update on Mbappe’s health status and availability ahead of the club's highly anticipated tournament debut.

Real Madrid faces Al Hilal in 2025 FIFA Club World Cup opener

The Spanish giants will face Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al Hilal on Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

The match is one of the marquee clashes in the group stage, with fans eager to see whether Mbappe will be fit to play.

Mbappe’s potential absence and team depth

Mbappe is widely regarded as the standout name in the Club World Cup lineup, rivaled only by Argentina’s World Cup hero and Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi. Should Mbappe be unavailable, Real Madrid still boasts an impressive roster.

Brazilian attackers Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo are expected to lead the front line, while English midfield sensation Jude Bellingham and Croatian veteran Luka Modric, a former Ballon d'Or winner, will anchor the midfield.

Possible debuts for new signings

Real Madrid’s recent additions in the form of Spanish center back Dean Huijsen and English right back Trent Alexander-Arnold participated in full training on Tuesday and could make their club debuts in Wednesday’s fixture.

Real Madrid and Al Hilal are joined in Group H by Liga MX champions Pachuca and Austrian side FC Red Bull Salzburg, making it a competitive bracket as the teams vie for a spot in the knockout rounds.

When and where to watch Real Madrid vs Al Hilal 2025 FIFA Club World Cup fixture?

The kick off time for Real Madrid vs Al Hilal 2025 FIFA Club World Cup fixture is 3:00 pm ET. The live broadcast of Real Madrid vs Al Hilal 2025 FIFA Club World Cup fixture will be available on DAZN and Fox Sports 2. The fans can enjoy live streaming of Real Madrid vs Al Hilal 2025 FIFA Club World Cup fixture on Sling and Fubo TV app.