Overview
- Xabi Alonso said Kylian Mbappé is fine to play and the forward was named in Real Madrid’s squad for Sunday’s trip to Alavés.
- Only three first‑team defenders are available, with Álvaro Carreras and Fran García suspended and Éder Militão, Trent Alexander‑Arnold and David Alaba among the injured.
- Dean Huijsen has rejoined the group after recent knee pain, easing uncertainty in central defense.
- Diario AS reports 19‑year‑old Castilla defender Víctor Valdepeñas could be handed a debut to cover the full‑back shortage.
- ESPN reported executive talks on Alonso’s future after a poor run, and with Barcelona seven points ahead, near‑term results are set to shape the coach’s fate.