Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has said that he is hoping to have Kylian Mbappe for the Spanish Super Cup game against Atletico Madrid. He accepted that they are pushing the French star to return on the pitch as soon as possible.
Xabi Alonso drops fitness update on Kylian Mbappe
Interacting with the media ahead of the league game against Real Betis, Alonso said that they are waiting to see how Mbappe feels as he continues his recovery. He added that they are assessing him on a daily basis but hope to have him back by January 8, when they lock horns with Atletico Madrid. He said:
“We’re going to push the timeline. It’s mostly about how he feels. We’re going to do everything we can to push the timeline and get him ready as soon as possible. The Super Cup? We’ll see. After each game, we assess the situation and make decisions. Now we’ll see."
Xabi Alonso opens up on Vinicius Jr
Talking about Vinicius Jr, who was surrounded by Real Madrid supporters during the clash against Real Madrid.
“Vini looks fine to me, cheerful and smiling. The break has been good for all of us to recharge our batteries. Tomorrow, we’re the ones who have to give in order to receive, to spread that enthusiasm and rhythm that we need. If that flows in both directions, we’ll enjoy ourselves.”
Dani Carvajal is also back for Real Madrid, but Alonso has not taken any decision on the Spanish defender.
What happened to Kylian Mbappe?
Kylian Mbappe has suffered a knee ligament injury after playing through pain in December. The French star was keen on participating in as many games as possible as he was chasing Cristiano Ronaldo's record, and is currently ruled out because of an injury.
Real Madrid issued a statement earlier this week, confirming the injury and said:
"After the tests carried out today on our player Kylian Mbappé by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a sprain in his left knee. Pending evolution."
L'Equipe reported that Kylian Mbappe was out for at least three weeks, but Alonso is now confident that the French forward will come back next week. He has been a key part of the starting XI for the Spaniard, with the striker amassing 18 goals so far in the league, and another nine in the UEFA Champions League this season.