Today's Edition
LONDON (DPA)
Coach Xabi Alonso says Real Madrid will have to find a way to cope without Kylian Mbappe.
Real return to domestic action on Sunday against Real Betis, four points behind leaders Barcelona in the race for the LaLiga title. But they will begin 2026 without 29-goal striker Mbappe, who has a sprained left knee.
His return date has not been confirmed but Alonso said at his pre-match press conference: "We'll keep pushing the timeline. It's largely about how he feels and we're going to do everything possible to get him back as soon as possible.
"When will that be? That's the question. I don't know. I'll give you a clearer answer at the next pre-match press conference. We assess each match and how the player feels and then we make decisions based on the needs.
"We have to see how he progresses and we're going to do everything we can to get him back as soon as possible."
On finding a way to manage in the France international's absence, he added: "We have to find the best way to fit the pieces together. Kylian wasn't at the World Cup and we still performed well, but we'll certainly miss him because his performance has been impressive, not only because of the goals but also because of his influence."
Sixth-placed Betis do not present the easiest return to action for Madrid, who went into the Christmas break on the back of three-successive wins, easing some of the discontent caused by their home loss to Celta Vigo.
"I'm eager, after a week's break, to get back to competition and face this second half of the season with enthusiasm, excitement and freshness. We start tomorrow at home and we want to play a great match and win it," said Alonso, who could call on Dani Carvajal for the first time in two months after a knee injury.
