Xabi Alonso Considers Shock Attacking Option for Crucial Real Madrid vs Manchester City Clash

Xabi Alonso could hand out-of-favour Endrick a rare start in Real Madrid’s clash with Manchester City on Wednesday night.

This news comes amid growing concerns over Kylian Mbappe’s fitness for the crucial Champions League clash.

According to reports, Alonso needs to beat his former boss, Pep Guardiola, to stay in the Real Madrid hot seat.

Amid the uncertainty about his future, Alonso has been linked with a Premier League move. He recently talked about the special bond he shares with Liverpool, saying he does not rule out a move in the future.

Kylian Mbappe Could Miss Real Madrid vs Manchester City

Real Madrid’s standout player of the 2025/26 season, Kylian Mbappe, is a doubt for the Matchday 6 meeting with Manchester City.

The French forward, who has scored 25 goals in 21 games in all competitions this season, finished the match against Celta Vigo with minor physical problems.

He sustained an injury to his finger and felt discomfort in his left leg during the 2-0 loss to Celta.

According to Spanish media, he is dealing with a muscular issue and did not train with the squad on Tuesday. However, he did gym work alongside Eduardo Camavinga.

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Even if Mbappe passes the late fitness test on Wednesday, he could start on the bench against Man City.

In his absence, Gonzalo Garcia is the obvious candidate to partner up with Vinicius Junior in attack. The Spanish striker did an excellent job at the FIFA Club World Cup when Kylian Mbappe was ill, scoring four goals.

However, according to a report from MARCA, Endrick is in contention to get his first start under Alonso on Wednesday.

Xabi Alonso Prepares Endrick for Man City Clash

During Real Madrid’s training session on Tuesday, Xabi Alonso reportedly paid closer attention to Endrick than normal. He was seen giving him more minute instructions, sparking speculation about the Brazilian’s role in the game against Manchester City.

Starting Endrick ahead of Gonzalo Garcia would be a surprising move.

The young forward has not played a minute of competitive football in over a month, with his last start coming against Valencia on 1st November.

On the other hand, it could also help Real Madrid catch the Cityzens slightly off guard. Anticipating Kylian Mbappe’s absence, they are likely to prepare for Garcia.

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Endrick, who packs more pace and has an excellent long-range shot, could pose a unique threat.

Endrick is likely to see any sort of involvement as a vote of confidence from Alonso. The Spaniard has only allowed him 11 minutes of football so far since taking charge of Madrid.

There has been a lot of speculation about Endrick’s future in recent weeks, with reports suggesting that a loan transfer is a possibility in January.

Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais are the frontrunners to secure a move for Endrick in the winter transfer window.