### Mbappé's Journey: From Illness to Key Player in the Club World Cup Kylian Mbappé's recent experience in the FIFA Club World Cup has been marked by challenges and resilience. After being sidelined due to a viral illness, he has made a comeback, albeit in a limited capacity. Initially, he was not part of coach Xabi Alonso's plans, but upon recovery, he found himself on the bench, a position that seems inadequate for a player of his caliber. So far, he has only played 45 minutes across two matches against Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, both as a substitute [https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/fifa-club-world-cup/articles/mbappé-back-and-demanding-his-place-at-real-madrid-ahead-of-psg-clash-2025-07-08]. ### Overview of Mbappé's Current Situation and Upcoming Challenges 1. **Health Recovery**: - Mbappé has recovered from gastroenteritis, which had kept him out of the initial matches of the tournament [https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45673814/real-madrid-mbappe-feeling-better-unconfirmed-starting-lineup-club-world-cup-quarterfinal]. - His return to fitness has been gradual, with coach Alonso confirming he is "better" but not yet guaranteed a starting position [https://www.dhakatribune.com/sport/football/385591/mbappe-better-and-ready-for-real-madrid-against]. 2. **Legal Matters**: - Ahead of the semi-final clash against PSG, Mbappé has dropped a lawsuit against his former club, PSG, which adds a layer of intrigue to the upcoming match [https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/rumor-real-madrid-star-kylian-mbappe-drops-lawsuit-psg-ahead-fifa-club-world-cup-clash-reports]. 3. **Upcoming Matches**: - Real Madrid is set to face PSG in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup, a match that is anticipated to be a significant challenge for both teams [https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/sports/2025/07/06/real-madrid-ready-for-really-big-challenge-against-psg-at-club-world-cup]. ### Evidence of Mbappé's Impact and Team Dynamics - **Performance Metrics**: - In the two matches he has participated in, Mbappé has played a total of 45 minutes, indicating limited involvement but also the potential for impactful contributions as he regains full fitness [https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/fifa-club-world-cup/articles/mbappé-back-and-demanding-his-place-at-real-madrid-ahead-of-psg-clash-2025-07-08]. - His presence on the field, even as a substitute, has been noted as a significant boost for Real Madrid, especially in high-stakes matches [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/real-boosted-mbappes-return-juventus-clash-club-world-cup-5212756]. ### Conclusion: Mbappé's Role in Real Madrid's Pursuit of Glory In summary, Kylian Mbappé's journey through the FIFA Club World Cup has been a testament to his resilience and importance to Real Madrid. 1. **Health Recovery**: After overcoming illness, he is gradually returning to form. 2. **Legal Resolution**: Dropping the lawsuit against PSG may ease tensions as he prepares for the semi-final. 3. **Team Dynamics**: His limited playtime thus far does not diminish his potential impact in crucial matches ahead. As Real Madrid gears up for a pivotal clash against PSG, all eyes will be on Mbappé to see if he can reclaim his place as a key player in the tournament [https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/fifa-club-world-cup/articles/mbappé-back-and-demanding-his-place-at-real-madrid-ahead-of-psg-clash-2025-07-08].