Real Madrid fans received a major boost today as star forward Kylian Mbappé returned to training following a health scare that sidelined him for the opening matches of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The 26-year-old French captain, who was hospitalized last week with an acute case of gastroenteritis, rejoined his teammates at Real Madrid’s training complex in Palm Beach, Florida, signaling a potential return to action for the Spanish giants.
🤍🔙 Kylian Mbappé, back in team training with Real Madrid today. pic.twitter.com/JySmaYFZLO
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 25, 2025
Mbappé’s absence was keenly felt in Real Madrid’s first two group stage matches. The team managed a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal on June 19 and faced Mexican side Pachuca on June 22 without their talismanic forward. Despite the setback, young striker Gonzalo García stepped up, scoring in the opener against Al-Hilal and earning praise from new head coach Xabi Alonso. However, Mbappé’s return to training today has reignited optimism among fans and the coaching staff as Real Madrid prepare for their final Group H match against RB Salzburg on June 27.The French superstar’s health ordeal began with a fever that forced him to miss training on June 17, just before the Club World Cup opener. His condition worsened, leading to a hospital admission on June 19 for what Real Madrid described as an “acute case of gastroenteritis,” an infection causing vomiting and diarrhea. Mbappé was discharged the same day and began a gradual recovery process, training individually at the team’s hotel gym while his teammates traveled to Charlotte for the Pachuca match.
On Monday, June 24, reports emerged that Mbappé had resumed light training, and today’s session marked his full return to team activities. The forward shared an upbeat message on social media, posting a training photo with the caption, “Back at it!”—a clear signal of his determination to reclaim his place in the lineup.
Coach Xabi Alonso, who took over from Carlo Ancelotti in May, expressed cautious optimism about Mbappé’s recovery. Speaking earlier this week, Alonso noted, “He’s better. Two days ago, he came back from the hospital. He’s recovering, and every day we’re more optimistic about getting him back for the last game against Salzburg.” With Mbappé now back in training, the focus shifts to whether he will be match-fit for the crucial clash against Salzburg, which could determine Real Madrid’s progression to the knockout stages.
Mbappé’s importance to Real Madrid cannot be overstated. In his debut season with the club after joining from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, he scored an impressive 43 goals in 56 appearances, including 31 in La Liga, earning him the European Golden Boot and the Pichichi Trophy as the league’s top scorer. His explosive pace, clinical finishing, and ability to deliver in big moments make him a cornerstone of Alonso’s attacking setup.
While Real Madrid have navigated Mbappé’s absence with resilience, his return could provide the spark needed to reignite their Club World Cup campaign. The team currently sits in a precarious position in Group H, with Salzburg leading the standings after a 2-1 win over Pachuca. A victory against Salzburg could secure Real Madrid’s place in the knockout rounds, and Mbappé’s presence would undoubtedly boost their chances.
As Mbappé works toward full fitness, Real Madrid are taking a cautious approach to ensure their star player is not rushed back prematurely. With a long season ahead, including La Liga and Champions League commitments, the club is prioritizing his long-term health. However, if today’s training session is any indication, Mbappé is on track to make a timely return, much to the delight of fans who have eagerly awaited his comeback.For now, the football world watches with anticipation as Kylian Mbappé prepares to step back onto the pitch, ready to add another chapter to his remarkable career with Real Madrid.
