Mbappe’s Sacrificial Gamble Amidst Alonso’s Departure

The 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final marked a pivotal moment, ultimately sealing Xabi Alonso’s fate as manager of Real Madrid. Recent reports from France have revealed that Kylian Mbappe played in this crucial match while significantly hindered by a knee injury. The French captain’s choice to participate was a calculated risk, motivated by his deep respect for Alonso.

As reported by L’Équipe, Mbappe recognized that the Clasico showdown in Saudi Arabia served as a referendum on Alonso’s tenure. Understanding that a loss could spell disaster for the manager’s position, the forward opted to play despite a sprained knee that was expected to sideline him until January 21. This decision showcased Mbappe’s commitment to his team and the project, as he was willing to jeopardize his long-term health in hopes of influencing the outcome against their arch-rivals.

The medical situation concerning Mbappe prior to the final was serious. The severity of his knee sprain had prompted the club’s medical team to plan for his return at the end of January. However, in light of the circumstances, Alonso strongly advocated for the inclusion of his star player, even if only for a brief appearance late in the game.

Despite the risks involved, Mbappe acquiesced to the urgings of a coaching staff he respected. Contrary to circulating rumors, he did not receive pain-relief injections to manage his injury; rather, he played through the discomfort without medication, disregarding multiple warnings from medical professionals regarding the potential for further injury.

The risk he took was considerable; exacerbating his knee condition could have resulted in severe repercussions, including an extensive absence during the pivotal Champions League knockout phase. Mbappe’s willingness to accept this risk underscores the gravity of the situation at Real Madrid and the loyalty the squad, particularly its standout star, felt towards Alonso.

Following the Super Cup defeat, despite his sacrifices, Mbappe faced significant backlash. He discouraged his teammates from paying tribute to their victorious rivals with a guard of honour, despite reports that Alonso had instructed them to perform this customary gesture.

Ultimately, the gamble did not yield the desired results. Barcelona triumphed 3-2, and Alonso was dismissed shortly thereafter. Nevertheless, the bond between the manager and his star player remained intact until the end. Just two hours after Alonso’s departure was announced, Mbappe was the first Real Madrid player to publicly express his sentiments, posting a heartfelt tribute on social media.

“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.”

With Alonso gone, Mbappe now faces a necessary recovery period. Alvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the new manager, having ascended from the youth ranks to assume this prestigious role. Although Arbeloa has yet to form a personal relationship with Mbappe, he has a key supporter in his staff, Antonio Pintus.

However, it is unlikely Arbeloa will make the same demands of Mbappe as Alonso did. With the urgency of salvaging a managerial position no longer present, it is expected that player fitness will take precedence. As such, Mbappe is unlikely to participate in the upcoming Copa del Rey match against Albacete, having already missed the team’s first training session under the new coach.