Xabi Alonso chooses his Mbappe replacement for Man City clash – ‘I trust you…’ | OneFootball

A new report from Defensa Central has revealed a significant development inside the Real Madrid dressing room ahead of tonight’s high-stakes Champions League showdown against Manchester City. 

With Kylian Mbappe emerging as a major doubt, manager Xabi Alonso has already begun reshaping his plans and one of the biggest beneficiaries is Rodrygo, who has reportedly been assured of a place in the starting XI.

All eyes had been on Tuesday morning’s training session at Valdebebas, where Mbappe’s absence immediately raised alarms. 

The forward did not train with the group due to discomfort in his left knee, and while the club has yet to officially confirm his status, every indication points towards him missing the starting lineup against Pep Guardiola’s side. 

For Alonso, whose job security is under intense scrutiny, the uncertainty surrounding his star forward has forced quick adjustments.

Spotlight on Rodrygo

Alonso has informed Rodrygo of his place in the starting XI against Man City. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

According to the report, Alonso spoke personally with Rodrygo after Mbappe’s injury scare, offering reassurance and clarity ahead of the decisive fixture. 

The manager reportedly told him, “I trust you, you’ll start against City,” a message meant to boost confidence and remove any doubt over the forward’s role in tonight’s clash.

Notably, Mbappe was not the only concern on Tuesday, as Eduardo Camavinga also trained indoors and is now expected to miss the match entirely. 

Real Madrid are already dealing with a long list of absentees. Dani Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy and Eder Militao have all been ruled out. 

With Mbappe and Camavinga officially categorised as serious doubts, the squad list, still pending confirmation, could reflect one of the most depleted Madrid teams to take the field in a major European night.