Why isn’t Kylian Mbappé playing for Real Madrid against Pachuca in FIFA Club World Cup 2025?

With Mbappé sidelined and Endrick not fully fit, 20-year-old Gonzalo García will once again lead the line for Madrid. After scoring and earning MVP honors in the opener against Al Hilal, García is quickly becoming one of the breakout stars of the tournament. His powerful run and composed finish showcased the qualities Xabi Alonso admires most.

Real Madrid will travel to Charlotte today without its biggest star. Kylian Mbappé will not be part of the squad for the second Group G match in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup against Pachuca. The French striker is still sidelined with acute gastroenteritis and has yet to rejoin the team, continuing his recovery in isolation at the team hotel.

In his absence, all eyes turn to Gonzalo García, the academy product who impressed in the opener and is now set to take on the offensive responsibility once again for Xabi Alonso’s side.

Mbappé, who already missed Madrid’s debut against Al Hilal, remains unavailable. Although there have been signs of improvement, the club is not willing to take any risks with his health. He has not resumed training with the squad and will continue to recover separately.

According to club sources, health protocols were activated at the onset of symptoms, and Mbappé was even hospitalized earlier in the week for treatment. While he’s shown signs of progress, he is still not physically fit to return to competition. The club’s flight to North Carolina is scheduled for 3 PM ET, and Mbappé will stay behind under observation. His availability for a potential Round of 16 match will depend on how he progresses in the coming days.

Gonzalo García: Valdebebas’ rising star ready to lead again

With Mbappé out and Endrick still nursing a recent injury, Gonzalo García is once again thrust into the spotlight. The young forward made a statement in his first senior start with a goal and a Man of the Match performance against Al Hilal, showcasing poise, strength, and a maturity well beyond his years.

His goal was just one highlight — the entire play was a showcase of his quality. Starting from deep in his own half, Gonzalo carried the ball with power, linked up with Rodrygo, and finished with a composed strike that reflected a natural-born striker. His blend of strength, tactical awareness, and finishing instinct is exactly what Xabi Alonso values most in him.

A classic No. 9 with a modern edge

At just 20 years old, Gonzalo García embodies the modern evolution of the center forward. With 25 goals for Castilla this season, he’s shown he has the killer instinct of a traditional striker. But he also brings modern attributes — mobility, high pressing, and smart movement off the ball. In a Real Madrid team often tasked with unlocking tight defenses, his presence as a focal point grows increasingly important.

Xabi Alonso has publicly praised the youngster’s work ethic and in-game intelligence. Now, with Mbappé still out and no like-for-like replacement available, Gonzalo faces a new challenge against Pachuca: leading the line for a team that must win.