Is Mbappé Playing Today? Full Injury Update for Real Madrid vs Alavés

Is Mbappé playing today is the key question ahead of Real Madrid’s La Liga trip to face Alavés on December 15. Kylian Mbappé has returned to full training and is included in the matchday squad after recent fitness concerns.

The decision now rests with head coach Xabi Alonso, who must balance risk and rotation as Real Madrid deal with multiple absences and mounting pressure in the title race.

Is Mbappé Playing Today and What Is His Current Injury Status?

Is Mbappé playing today became a major talking point after he was left out of the starting lineup against Manchester City in midweek. That absence was not tactical, according to club sources, but linked to physical issues.

Mbappé had been managing a fractured finger and discomfort in his left knee. The medical staff opted for caution, leading to him starting on the bench in the Champions League fixture.

Real Madrid confirmed that Mbappé trained normally in the days leading up to the Alavés match. He showed no visible limitations during full sessions with the squad.

As of matchday morning, Mbappé is considered fit and available. He has been named in the official squad list for the Round 16 La Liga clash.

Xabi Alonso, however, stopped short of confirming whether Mbappé will start. In his pre-match remarks, he said the forward is recovered and that the final call would be made closer to kickoff.

The context matters. Real Madrid are dealing with nine absences due to injury and suspension. Those missing include David Alaba, Éder Militão, Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, Fran García, Endrick, Miguel Carreras, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

That shortage has forced heavy rotation, especially in defense. Dean Huijsen returned to training and is expected to start, offering some relief at the back.

Mbappé’s importance is clear in the numbers. He leads La Liga with 16 goals and is also the Champions League top scorer with nine. His presence significantly alters Real Madrid’s attacking threat.

Real Madrid are currently second in La Liga with 36 points from 22 matches. Barcelona sit four points ahead and could extend the gap before Madrid take the field.

Against that backdrop, Alonso must decide whether to start Mbappé or manage his minutes. With fixtures coming thick and fast, the risk of aggravation remains a factor.

Pressure on Real Madrid as Xabi Alonso Weighs the Call

The stakes for this match go beyond one player. Real Madrid are coming off a 2–1 home loss that drew boos from the Bernabéu crowd.

The atmosphere around the team has tightened, and every lineup decision is being scrutinized. Alonso acknowledged the limited options and described the match as very important given the club’s position.

Starting Mbappé could provide an immediate lift and help control the game early. Holding him back could protect his fitness but risk another sluggish performance.

The Alavés fixture is viewed internally as a chance to reset momentum. Mbappé’s availability, even if limited, gives Real Madrid a focal point they lacked in midweek.

Is Mbappé playing today remains unanswered until kickoff. What is clear is that his return to fitness comes at a critical moment for Real Madrid.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Mbappé playing today against Alavés?

Mbappé is fit and included in the squad. Xabi Alonso has not confirmed whether he will start.

Q2: What injury did Mbappé have?

He was dealing with a fractured finger and left knee discomfort. Both issues are now considered resolved.

Q3: Why didn’t Mbappé start against Manchester City?

The decision was medical, not tactical. Real Madrid chose to manage his fitness.

Q4: How important is Mbappé to Real Madrid right now?

He leads La Liga and the Champions League in goals. His presence changes how opponents defend.

Q5: Who else is missing for Real Madrid vs Alavés?

Real Madrid have nine players out through injury or suspension, mainly affecting defense and midfield.