Real Madrid Extends Deadline for Mbappe's Return in Spanish Super Cup

Kylian Mbappe Misses Part of the Games

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe will miss Sunday's La Liga match against Real Betis due to a knee injury; however, he is eager to be available for the semifinal of the Spanish Super Cup against Atletico Madrid, according to coach Xabi Alonso.

The 27-year-old, who captains the French national team, equaled Cristiano Ronaldo's record of 59 goals in a calendar year during a 2-0 victory over Sevilla on December 20. He is currently suffering from a sprain in his left knee.

Initially, it was believed that such an injury could require at least three weeks of recovery. “We will definitely miss Kylian,” Alonso told reporters on Saturday. “We need to have great confidence in those who will play tomorrow.”

“Now we will see. We have to wait and see how things evolve, and we will do everything possible to bring him back as soon as we can. We will extend the deadline; it's entirely a matter of sensations. When is the earliest possible time? That’s the question. I don’t know. The Super Cup? We hope so.”

Alonso's team sits five points atop the standings, but the form has dipped in November, with three consecutive draws and a surprising home defeat to Celta Vigo in December, allowing defending champions Barcelona to extend their lead to four points in the title race. The team’s struggles have been accompanied by a goal drought from striker Vinicius Jr., who has scored only five times across competitions this season and hasn’t found the net since October.

When asked about Vinicius's condition after being booed by some fans in the last match against Sevilla at Bernabeu, Alonso stated: “Vini seems fine to me, cheerful and smiling. The break was good for all of us to recharge our batteries.”

“Tomorrow, we are the ones who need to contribute to receiving and spreading the enthusiasm and rhythm we need. If this flows both ways, we will enjoy it.”