Real Madrid suffered a 1-2 defeat to Manchester City in a high-stakes Champions League clash at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, leaving star forward Kylian Mbappé unused on the substitutes' bench despite being named in the squad. The loss, courtesy of goals from City's Nico O'Reilly and Erling Haaland (penalty), came after Rodrygo had given Madrid an early lead. Manager Xabi Alonso's decision not to introduce Mbappé has sparked intense debate, especially as the French superstar has been the team's top scorer with 25 goals this season and is pivotal to their attacking play. Alonso cited Mbappé's minor knee injury as the primary reason, stating post-match that "he wasn't fit to play; otherwise, he would have," adding that it was "too early to know" if he'd be available for Sunday's LaLiga trip to Alavés.

The injury concerns emerged earlier in the week when Mbappé missed training sessions, including an open session on Tuesday, after reports of discomfort in his left leg and knee following a recent finger fracture and ankle issues. Despite being cleared to join the bench at the last minute, Alonso deemed it too risky to deploy him in such a crucial match, opting instead for Gonzalo García to lead the line alongside Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo. Substitutions included Arda Güler for García at halftime, Brahim Díaz for Dani Ceballos in the 67th minute, and Endrick for Raúl Asencio in the 79th, but Mbappé remained sidelined. This choice highlighted Madrid's heavy reliance on Mbappé, as the team created chances—including a missed opportunity from Jude Bellingham—but lacked the clinical edge he provides.

The decision has amplified scrutiny on Alonso amid a turbulent period for Real Madrid, who have won just two of their last eight games across all competitions. Fans and pundits questioned why Mbappé wasn't risked for even a short cameo to chase an equaliser, especially with the Bernabéu crowd urging more attacking intent. Alonso defended his caution, emphasising player welfare and noting that the team had "enough scoring opportunities" without him. However, the loss intensifies pressure on the manager, with reports suggesting club president Florentino Pérez and executives are evaluating his future after a string of underwhelming results. Mbappé himself was vocal from the bench, gesturing to officials over a potential foul during City's equalizer.

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Looking ahead, Mbappé's availability for upcoming fixtures will be crucial as Madrid aims to salvage their season. The team sits in a precarious position in both LaLiga and the Champions League, needing consistency to challenge leader Barcelona and advance in Europe. Alonso's tactical flexibility and injury management will be tested, while Mbappé's return could reignite Madrid's attack. For now, the unused substitute stint serves as a reminder of how indispensable the 26-year-old has become—and how vulnerable the squad is without him.

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