'He's recovering' - Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso gives Kylian Mbappe injury update ahead of Club World Cup clash with Pachuca

The star forward is yet to appear in the Club World Cup after missing Los Blancos' opening game against Al-Hilal through illness. Mbappe was said to be suffering with a case of acute gastroenteritis and had to be hospitalised after contracting the virus. There had been some optimism that he might have been well enough to make the second game of the tournament, but Alonso has admitted it is unlikely Mbappe will make an appearance.

Speaking ahead of their game against Pachuca, Alonso said: "He's better. It's been two days since he came back from hospital.

"He's recovering, and day by day we're increasingly optimistic about him for the next match."

Madrid will be desperate for Mbappe to return in time for their final group stage game against RB Salzburg on Friday. Alonso's side did not get off to the best start to the Club World Cup, limping to a disappointing 1-1 draw against Al-Hilal, and could be in trouble should they not beat the Mexican side on Sunday. Mbappe ended the season in scintillating form, continued to shine in the Nations League and looked set to take this tournament by storm, but his hot streak has been halted.

The Frenchman continues to recover from his illness, but could be back in training next week. Should Madrid progress, they will be one of the favourites to lift the trophy and take home the sizeable prize pot for winning the tournament.