Kylian Mbappe played through severe pain in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, risking a serious knee injury to defend the job of his respected coach, Xabi Alonso.
The French striker decided to defy the warnings of the medical staff to help the team in a crucial match, showing the special bond with the departed coach.
The 3-2 defeat to Barcelona ultimately sealed Alonso's fate, but according to French media, Mbappé was aware that this match could decide the coach's future.
The club's top scorer sacrificed his fitness, playing even though his injury would keep him out until January 21.
The player did not use painkillers and played despite warnings from medical experts. His decision was driven by a desire to protect the coach and do everything he could to change the course of the match.
Alonso insisted that Mbappé play, even in a limited role towards the end of the match, showing his full faith in the striker. However, Barcelona managed to win and Alonso was sacked immediately after the match.
Following the announcement of Alonso's departure, Mbappé was the first Real Madrid player to post a touching message on social media, thanking the coach for his trust and leadership.
With the departure of Alonso, the era of Alvaro Arbeloa begins at Real Madrid. /Telegraph/
