Real Madrid’s Spanish Super Cup preparations have taken a major hit, with Kylian Mbappé now effectively ruled out of Thursday’s semi-final derby against Atlético Madrid in Jeddah.
Three days before Madrid begin their Super Cup campaign, Mbappé was limited to gym work on Monday, and despite the club indicating Tuesday’s session would help determine his availability, the expectation inside the camp is clear: he won’t feature in the semi-final.
Another derby without Mbappé
It will be another Madrid derby without the French star, who already missed the first Atlético clash after his arrival last September at the Metropolitano. In the derbies he has played, he has delivered moments — including two LaLiga goals, both vital equalisers at the time — but Madrid will have to chase a place in the final without him this week.
Knee problem forces caution
Mbappé has been troubled by a left knee sprain, diagnosed on New Year’s Eve, after discomfort that reportedly lingered for weeks. It previously kept him out of the December 10 match against Manchester City, and after the holiday break, the issue has flared up again.
Alonso had already sounded cautious in his most recent comments, admitting the club would “push the timeline” but without offering strong optimism about Jeddah.
Huijsen returns to training boost
There was at least one positive update on Monday: Dean Huijsen completed full training with the group after missing the Betis match. His return strengthens Alonso’s defensive options at a crucial moment, especially with Madrid still missing key names.
Current absentees for Alonso
As it stands, Alonso is working around multiple absences:
- Kylian Mbappé – knee sprain (unlikely for semi-final)
- Éder Militão – injured
- Trent Alexander-Arnold – injured
- Brahim Díaz – away on international duty
Madrid are expected to name the travelling squad after Tuesday’s session, with the rest of the group fit and focused on pushing for a record-extending 14th Spanish Super Cup.