FEAR FOR MBAPPÉ: HOSPITALIZED, REAL MADRID ISSUES STATEMENT

Concern is growing for Kylian Mbappé. Absent from Real Madrid's opening Club World Cup match against Al Hilal, which ended in a 1-1 draw, the French forward has been hospitalized. Real Madrid themselves confirmed the news, stating that the French footballer is suffering from "acute gastroenteritis." This illness necessitated tests and treatment.

According to As, Mbappé experienced fever and gastrointestinal issues throughout yesterday afternoon and evening. Held out of the match against Simone Inzaghi's squad by coach Xabi Alonso, the former PSG star wasn't even present at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami due to his precarious health condition. This raised an alarm, as he hadn't even been able to complete a light training session in the morning.

Instead of improving, his condition worsened. Late yesterday evening, Mbappé left the Four Seasons hotel and was admitted to a well-known hospital, where he spent the night. His condition will be monitored until his health issues have resolved. Given the extreme temperatures—with peaks up to 38 degrees Celsius and 65 percent humidity—Real Madrid's staff wants to take every precaution.

It's difficult to imagine Mbappé's presence in the next Club World Cup match on Sunday against Mexico's Pachuca. A return in the June 27 match against Salzburg is more probable. One thing is certain: the Merengues will take all necessary precautions. Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso also preferred not to speculate: "He had a rather serious viral infection. We will assess in the coming days whether he can play in the match." Further updates will follow.

What are your thoughts on how professional sports teams manage player health, especially when facing extreme environmental conditions like those in Miami?