Real Madrid's star forward, Kylian Mbappe, has been hospitalized with acute gastroenteritis, casting a shadow over the team's participation in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The news comes after Mbappe missed Real Madrid's opening match against Al-Hilal on Wednesday, a game that ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw.

The club officially announced Mbappe's hospitalization on Thursday, stating that the French international is undergoing tests and treatment. "Our player Kylian Mbappé has acute gastroenteritis and has been hospitalized for various tests and treatment," the club said in a brief statement on their website. Gastroenteritis is an infection of the digestive system that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. It is often caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

Mbappe's illness initially presented as a fever, which kept him out of the team's final training session before the match against Al-Hilal. Manager Xabi Alonso had expressed hope that Mbappe might recover in time to play, but his condition worsened, necessitating hospitalization. His absence was felt during the match against Al-Hilal. Without their star striker, Madrid struggled to find the net, ultimately drawing with the Saudi Arabian team.

The timing of Mbappe's illness is particularly unfortunate, as it coincides with Alonso's debut as Real Madrid's manager. The new coach is now faced with the challenge of navigating the Club World Cup without one of his key players. The team has depth and quality players, but Mbappe's absence undoubtedly impacts their attacking prowess.

Mbappe's hospitalization raises concerns about his availability for the remainder of the Club World Cup. There is currently no set timeline for his return. The recovery period for gastroenteritis can vary, potentially sidelining Mbappe for over a week. This would jeopardize his participation in Real Madrid's upcoming group stage match against Pachuca on Sunday.

In Mbappe's absence, 21-year-old Gonzalo Garcia led the attack against Al-Hilal, scoring Real Madrid's lone goal. Other players like Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo will also need to step up to fill the void left by Mbappe.

Real Madrid is placed in Group F alongside Al Hilal, Pachuca and RB Salzburg of Austria. They are considered to be one of the favorites to win the tournament. However, Mbappe's illness adds uncertainty to their campaign.