According to Spanish newspaper AS, in his first media appearance since becoming a Real Madrid player, Mbappe faced questions about when he would join up with his new team for training. Given that Mbappe has just completed his Euro campaign, theoretically, his vacation should start from July 11th and is expected to last four weeks until August 8th. This time frame coincides with the end of Real Madrid’s summer tour of the United States, with the final match scheduled between August 6th and 7th against Chelsea.
Real Madrid has already announced that all players who participated in the semi-finals of the Euros or Copa America will not be required to take part in the US tour, unless they personally choose to sacrifice their vacation and return early, as some did last season.
In a press conference, Mbappe expressed his desire to join the US tour, stating: “It depends on the club’s decision. If I’m needed, I’ll go; if not, I won’t. Nothing is decided yet.”
However, within Real Madrid, there are reservations about this. While Mbappe’s involvement could significantly boost the team’s appeal and economic benefits in the US, the club is more concerned about ensuring the player gets adequate rest before the upcoming intense season. The new season will be full of challenges, including the pursuit of seven titles, and possibly up to 72 matches due to changes in the Champions League format, excluding national team fixtures.
Real Madrid emphasizes that rest is crucial for players heading into such a demanding season, especially for key players like Mbappe. Although having Mbappe on the tour might look good from a public relations perspective, it would be a “reckless” move from a health and physical recovery standpoint. Therefore, despite Mbappe’s willingness, Real Madrid is unlikely to push him to cut his vacation short and join the US tour, to ensure he is in peak condition at the start of the new season.
