Kylian Mbappé did not travel with Real Madrid to Saudi Arabia for the semifinal against Atlético Madrid because the French forward had nursed a knee sprain earlier in the week. In his absence, Blancos edged city rivals Atlético Madrid 2-1 in Jeddah on Thursday, January 9, to book a Clasico showdown.
Speaking to reporters after that victory, Alonso said: “(Mbappe) is a lot better, he is feeling good, and he has the same chance of playing as his team-mates.” The coach added that Mbappé would fly out on Friday to join the rest of the squad in Jeddah.
Mbappé, 27, remains central to Madrid’s attacking threat, topping the club’s scoring charts with 29 goals in 24 appearances across all competitions this season. His return would come just in time for a final against holders Barcelona, who swept aside Athletic Bilbao 5–0 in Wednesday’s opening semi-final.
Yet beyond the Frenchman, Madrid’s recent run has highlighted a broader truth about Alonso’s side. Even without their marquee forward, results and performances have barely wavered.
Since Mbappé’s arrival in the summer of 2024, Madrid have averaged 2.16 points per game when he starts. Without him, that figure rises marginally to 2.18.
The goals data points in the same direction. According to figures compiled by Sofascore, Madrid scores 2.19 goals per match with Mbappé and 2.09 without him.
The slight dip in output is balanced by improved defensive returns, with goals conceded dropping from 1.19 to 1.00 per game and clean sheets remaining almost unchanged.
There are subtle shifts elsewhere. Shot volume falls in Mbappé’s absence, from 17.8 per match to 15.4, and the number of clear-cut chances created also dips. Opponents, meanwhile, tend to enjoy more possession and attempt more shots themselves.
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/01/09/el-clasico-xabi-alonso-clears-kylian-mbappe-for-spanish-super-cup-final/