Real Madrid received a major lift ahead of Sunday’s pivotal La Liga clash with Deportivo Alavés as star forward Kylian Mbappé has been confirmed fit and available for selection, easing immediate pressure on manager Xabi Alonso. After a fortnight of uncertainty surrounding his fitness, the French international’s return represents a significant strategic advantage for Los Blancos as they seek to arrest a troubling dip in form.
The weekend match at Mendizorrotza carries weight far beyond three points. Real Madrid’s inconsistent run, highlighted by just one win in their past five league fixtures and a 2-1 home loss to Manchester City in the Champions League, has intensified scrutiny on Alonso’s stewardship, with some media suggesting this fixture could be defining for his future at the club.
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Kylian Mbappé Cleared for Action After Fitness Scare
Alonso’s pre-match press conference brought the confirmation the Real Madrid camp desperately needed: Mbappé “is fit to play” against Alavés, and will be assessed again on matchday before a final decision on whether he starts.
Mbappé had been absent from the squad for the midweek clash with Manchester City due to a minor injury concern — a situation that left fans and pundits questioning his availability for the crucial La Liga test. He remained on the bench at the Bernabéu and did not participate in the match, fueling speculation about his fitness.
Reports ahead of the latest update indicated that Mbappé underwent fresh tests to determine the severity of his muscle discomfort and overall readiness. Clubs often tread carefully with star players in congested schedules, balancing short-term needs with long-term fitness, and Real Madrid’s medical staff appeared to be taking that cautious approach late into the week.
Training ground observations also pointed toward optimism. Mbappé was present and participating in sessions ahead of the Alavés match, a key indicator that the coaching staff believes he’s ready to contribute.
The timing of his potential return could not be more significant. According to statistical analysis, Real Madrid’s offensive output is heavily influenced by Mbappé’s presence; the team’s goal conversion and attacking precision dip noticeably in his absence. His ability to create chances and finish consistently has made him indispensable over the course of the season.
Tactical and Psychological Impact for Real Madrid and Alonso
Mbappé’s availability offers both tactical clarity and a psychological edge for Real Madrid as they prepare to confront Alavés. On paper, it strengthens an attack that has struggled to convert dominant play into victories in recent weeks. His presence gives Alonso options across the frontline, allowing flexibility in formation and the ability to press and exploit defenses with greater menace.
The broader context heightens the importance of this boost. Real Madrid have suffered a string of setbacks, including injuries to key players and disciplinary suspensions that have thinned their squad. With defenders and midfielders also unavailable, the team’s reliance on Mbappé’s match-winning potential has increased even further.
For Alonso, who has faced growing demands to reverse the club’s slide, having his talisman fit for such a critical fixture provides breathing room. Mbappé’s return may galvanize the squad and offer a focal point for their offensive play, potentially relieving some pressure from a manager whose tenure is under intense media and fan scrutiny.
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Beyond the tactical advantages, Mbappé’s presence holds symbolic value. In a period marked by uncertainty and criticism, restoring one of the world’s elite players to first-team action can serve as a morale lift for teammates and supporters alike. Whether that translates into a much-needed win remains to be seen, but Real Madrid will certainly take the positive signal into a clash that could shape their domestic campaign.
Sunday’s kickoff in Vitoria-Gasteiz stands as a litmus test for Los Blancos. With Mbappé potentially leading the line, Real Madrid are hoping to turn momentum around and provide Alonso with a platform to quell mounting pressure.
