Kylian Mbappé has been named in Real Madrid’s squad for the Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca after partially participating in Monday’s training session.
Mbappé suffered a thigh injury during Madrid’s 3-2 Champions League win over Atalanta last week, raising doubts about his availability for the FIFA tournament. Initial reports suggested a 10-day recovery period, which caused him to miss Madrid’s 3-3 LaLiga draw with Rayo Vallecano on Saturday. However, the forward joined training on Monday, working partially with the team and individually, before being included in the 24-man squad traveling to Doha for Wednesday’s final at Luhail Stadium.
The Intercontinental Cup, formerly known as the Club World Cup, was revamped by FIFA and will be replaced by an expanded tournament in the U.S. next summer. Real Madrid qualified for this year’s final by winning the 2023-24 Champions League. Their opponents, Pachuca, secured their spot after winning the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup and defeating Brazil’s Botafogo and Egypt’s Al Ahly in earlier rounds.
Mbappé has been a key figure for Madrid this season, scoring 12 goals across all competitions, but he has also faced criticism for inconsistency in his performances. He impressed in the Atalanta match, scoring his 50th Champions League goal before being substituted in the 36th minute due to thigh discomfort.
This final offers Madrid a shot at their second trophy of the season, having already claimed the UEFA Super Cup. They are currently third in LaLiga, just one point behind leaders Barcelona, despite a turbulent campaign.