Kylian Mbappe is expected to make his return to the pitch on Thursday as Real Madrid prepare to face Salzburg in their final Group H fixture at the FIFA Club World Cup. The French forward has been sidelined for the Spanish club’s opening two matches, but head coach Xabi Alonso confirmed that a comeback is likely.

Speaking after Real Madrid’s 3-1 win over Mexican side Pachuca on Sunday, Alonso told The Associated Press, “We’re looking forward to having him back. We need to take things day by day.”

Mbappe was ruled out of the opening fixtures after being hospitalized with a case of acute gastroenteritis. He was discharged last Thursday, but did not feature in Madrid’s surprising 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal or in the victory over Pachuca.

With the group stage nearing its conclusion, Madrid only need a draw against Salzburg to secure a place in the knockout rounds. Having their top scorer back could be a timely boost. Mbappe finished last season as the club’s leading marksman, netting an impressive 43 goals across all competitions.

In his absence, Real Madrid turned to youth prospect Gonzalo Garcia, who impressed with a goal against Al Hilal and also earned a start against Pachuca. While Garcia filled in admirably, Madrid fans and tournament viewers alike are eager to see Mbappe’s debut at the Club World Cup — a tournament where he is expected to be one of the standout names.

Thursday’s showdown against Salzburg not only determines Madrid’s fate in the group but also offers fans a potential first glimpse of Mbappe in this year’s edition of the global tournament. All eyes will be on whether the French international is ready to return to full action and help push the European champions deeper into the competition.

No results