Kylian Mbappé hasn’t had the Club World Cup that many expected. Aside from his goal in the quarterfinals against Borussia Dortmund, the French forward has been slowly finding his rhythm—and now we know why.

According to a report published Wednesday by L’Équipe, the Real Madrid star suffered a food poisoning episode before flying to the United States, caused by bacteria found in spoiled chicken.

It wasn’t a minor issue. Mbappé lost six kilos as a result of the poisoning, which explains his physical drop early in the tournament. His condition deteriorated to the point that he was hospitalized on June 18, right in the middle of Madrid’s training camp.

A diagnosis that took time

It all started with stomach discomfort before the trip to the U.S., but the symptoms were initially downplayed. Once in America, things worsened: fever, nausea, and abdominal pain led doctors to suspect acute gastroenteritis, though the situation was more complex than expected.

At one point, doctors even considered heat stroke or appendicitis. Eventually, after several medical tests, the real cause was discovered: spoiled chicken.

Mbappé was released from the hospital on June 19, and since then, he’s been gradually regaining his form.

Ready to shine again?

Despite the scare, Mbappé is now showing signs of recovery just in time for the final stretch of the tournament. His goal against Dortmund was a much-needed boost for both him and Real Madrid. If he can return to his usual level, he could still be decisive in the fight for the title.