Mbappe doubtful for Real Madrid’s Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal

Club sources told Reuters that Mbappe woke up with a high fever
Mbappe has been instrumental for Real Madrid this season

MIAMI: Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe is a doubt for their opening Club World Cup match against Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal on Wednesday, after missing training on Tuesday due to illness.

Club sources told Reuters that Mbappe woke up with a high fever. While he has not been officially ruled out, the source said his availability for the clash at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium was in “more than reasonable doubt”.

The potential absence of Mbappe leaves newly-appointed Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso facing a selection dilemma, as the Frenchman is currently the only recognized center forward in the squad.

Brazilian teenager Endrick, who could have provided an alternative, was left out of the traveling party following a leg muscle injury sustained during Real’s LaLiga fixture at Sevilla last month.

Mbappe has been instrumental for Real Madrid this season, scoring 31 LaLiga goals since his high-profile summer move from Paris St.