Alvaro Arbeloa Drops Bombshell on Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe Call Against Real Sociedad
Real Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa has announced that Kylian Mbappé is available for selection in Saturday's clash against Real Sociedad.
The French forward missed two training sessions this week due to knee soreness—a persistent issue stemming from his December injury—but returned to practice on Friday.
"Kylian is doing well," Arbeloa told the media. "He participated in group training and is ready for selection."
AS reports that Mbappé is likely to be in the starting lineup for Saturday's match against Sociedad, a result that could propel Madrid to the summit of La Liga. Table-toppers Barcelona won't play until their brief journey to Girona on Monday.
Real Madrid Still Missing Big Names
Real Madrid Still Missing Big Names
Mbappé's return provides a clear lift for Arbeloa, who should also have center-back Raúl Asencio at his disposal after the defender recovered from illness.
Madrid's injury concerns don't look particularly daunting on the surface. While the team has battled significant fitness issues over the last year, they enter Saturday's encounter with only three players ruled out.
Regrettably for Arbeloa, several of those sidelined are key squad members.
The most pressing concern is midfielder Jude Bellingham's absence due to a severe hamstring problem. Early projections suggest Bellingham could return in early February, though some sources indicate the England star might not feature again until April.
Brazilian winger Rodrygo is also unavailable, compelling Arbeloa to modify his tactical approach. Gonzalo García has stepped in at both striker and right wing positions, with Franco Mastantuono and Brahim Díaz also contributing.
Additionally, utility defender Éder Militão continues his recovery from injury.
Arbeloa Looking to Send a Statement Against Sociedad
Arbeloa Looking to Send a Statement Against Sociedad
The storylines surrounding El Clásico opponents Real Madrid and Barcelona have been starkly contrasting this campaign. The Catalans have been praised as potential continental champions, while Madrid, following the dismissal of former boss Xabi Alonso last month, face ridicule. Only one point divides them in the league standings.
Barcelona's morale has plummeted following a devastating 4–0 loss to Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinal first leg—a match that delayed their next league fixture until Monday.
Madrid have the opportunity to leapfrog their eternal rivals on Saturday with a win, which would intensify pressure on Hansi Flick's team as they seek an immediate bounce-back from their worst performance of the campaign.