Kylian Mbappé probable absentee against Manchester City, another blow for Xabi Alonso | OneFootball

Results have dipped, the defence is depleted and Kylian Mbappé is doubtful, so Real Madrid’s home meeting with Manchester City on Wednesday at 21:00 in the Champions League lands at the worst possible time for Xabi Alonso.

According to L'Équipe, Mbappé did not train on Tuesday morning and will undergo tests on Wednesday morning at Valdebebas, with the club cautious over his chances of playing. Even if he features, the France forward would be limited.

Alonso has not yet managed without Mbappé this season. The 26-year-old has started every match and scored 25 in 21, including nine in the Champions League. Vinicius and Rodrygo are yet to score in Europe, Bellingham is inconsistent, Arda Güler has dipped and Brahim Diaz has faded.

Eduardo Camavinga, ankle, and Dean Huijsen, knee, are also out, joining Éder Militao, Ferland Mendy, Trent Alexander-Arnold, David Alaba and Dani Carvajal. Nearly 60% of the defence are sidelined, which could push Federico Valverde to start at right-back.

Academy prospects have been drafted alongside Raul Asencio and Gonzalo Garcia, with Joan Martinez, Victor Valdepeñas and Jorge Cestero among those who could emerge unexpectedly.

After Sunday’s 0-2 loss to Celta Vigo, president Florentino Pérez was angry and vowed changes if results dip again, though circumstances might soften that. Alonso says the dressing room backs him and he is focused. Álvaro Arbeloa, the reserve coach and a summer shortlist name, is standing by.

Source: L'Équipe