Real Madrid are holding out hope that star forward Kylian Mbappé could feature in their upcoming Spanish Super Cup semi-final against city rivals Atlético Madrid, despite a recent knee injury.
Manager Xabi Alonso has made it clear the club will do everything possible to accelerate the Frenchman's recovery, even if it means taking his return right down to the wire.
Mbappé picked up a sprain in his left knee during training on New Year's Eve, just as the team was gearing up for the new year. Initial assessments pointed to a three-week layoff, which would almost certainly rule him out of the January 8 showdown in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and possibly the final a few days later. The 27-year-old has been in sensational form this season, banging in 29 goals across all competitions and proving indispensable for Alonso's side.
Speaking ahead of Sunday's LaLiga opener against Real Betis – a game Mbappé will definitely miss – Alonso remained cautiously optimistic. "We're going to push the timelines," he told reporters. "It's all about how he feels day to day. We want him back as soon as possible, and we'll take it right to the deadline if needed. The Super Cup? We'll see..."Reports suggest Mbappé will travel with the squad to Saudi Arabia, keeping him involved and giving the medical team every chance to get him ready.
While many insiders believe it would take something close to a miracle for him to play against Atlético, the club isn't ruling anything out. In his absence, young striker Gonzalo García looks set to step up, potentially alongside the likes of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo in attack.
The Madrid derby in the Super Cup promises plenty of fireworks regardless, but Mbappé's potential involvement would add even more spice to an already heated rivalry. Fans will be watching his progress closely over the coming days.
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