Revealed: Mbappe Took a Huge Risk to Try and Save Xabi Alonso from Real Madrid Sacking

‎Kylian Mbappe reportedly went against medical advice and placed his long-term fitness in jeopardy in a determined attempt to help Xabi Alonso retain his position as Real Madrid manager. The French forward featured in the Spanish Super Cup final loss to Barcelona despite carrying a significant knee injury, fully aware that defeat would almost certainly end Alonso’s tenure.

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‎Kylian Mbappe reportedly played through a knee injury against Barcelona in a risky effort to prevent Xabi Alonso’s dismissal as Real Madrid head coach.

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‎The Clasico showdown in Saudi Arabia ended in a dramatic 3-2 defeat for Madrid, a result that ultimately led to Alonso’s dismissal. However, fresh reports from France have revealed that Mbappe entered the match far from full fitness, battling pain from a knee sprain that should have sidelined him until January 21.

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‎According to L'Équipe, Mbappe understood the magnitude of the occasion. The Super Cup final was seen internally as a decisive moment for Alonso’s project, and the forward believed his presence could influence the outcome. In an act of personal sacrifice, the club’s leading scorer made himself available despite the clear risks involved.

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‎Medical staff had initially ruled Mbappe out, scheduling his return for later in the month. Yet the urgency of the situation altered the plan. Alonso, aware that his job hung by a thread, strongly advocated for Mbappe’s inclusion, even if it meant deploying him only briefly.

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‎Mbappe accepted the request, choosing loyalty over caution. Contrary to speculation before kickoff, he did not rely on pain-killing injections. Instead, he played while enduring natural discomfort, disregarding repeated warnings from doctors about the possibility of aggravating the injury.

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‎The potential consequences were severe. A worsening of the knee problem could have resulted in a prolonged absence during the crucial Champions League knockout stages. His willingness to take such a gamble highlighted both the crisis engulfing Real Madrid and the deep respect he held for Alonso.

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‎Despite his efforts, Mbappe found himself under scrutiny after the defeat. He reportedly urged teammates not to form a guard of honour for Barcelona, even though there were claims that Alonso had encouraged the squad to observe the tradition.

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‎Ultimately, the sacrifice proved futile. Barcelona emerged victorious, and Alonso was relieved of his duties shortly after. Still, the bond between manager and player remained evident. Just two hours after the club confirmed Alonso’s departure, Mbappe broke his silence with an emotional message.

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‎“It was short but a real pleasure to play for you and learn by your side,” Mbappe wrote. “Thank you for trusting me from day one. I will remember you as a visionary coach and a keen connoisseur of football. Good luck for the future.”

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‎With Alonso gone, attention has shifted to Mbappe’s recovery. Alvaro Arbeloa has taken over as head coach after stepping up from the youth system. While he has yet to build a relationship with Mbappe, Arbeloa will work closely with Antonio Pintus, a familiar and trusted figure.

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‎Unlike his predecessor, Arbeloa is expected to prioritize the forward’s health. With no managerial job on the line, Mbappe is unlikely to be rushed back and is set to miss the Copa del Rey clash against Albacete after skipping his first training session under the new regime.