Mbappe, Getty images December 11, 2025, 1:46 p.m

The head coach of Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso, explained the decision not to release striker Kylian Mbappe for the match of the sixth round of the general stage of the Champions League against Manchester City.

“Mbappe is not ready to play. We’ll see if he comes out at the end of the match, but he didn’t feel very well. It’s not that he can’t give 100% or doesn’t want to take another risk. The risk is there and we have to assess it,” Alonso said.

The coach also noted the importance of Gonzalo Garcia for the team: “Of course, Kylian is Kylian, but Gonzalo Garcia can also give us a lot. Opportunities appear in any situation. And Gonzalo was always ready, he has already proven it. We fully believe in him.”

We will add that Alonso will not be released after the defeat against Manchester City.