Mbappe's Latest Move Sends Shockwaves Through Real Madrid's Transfer Plans
Real Madrid have announced that Kylian Mbappé was absent from squad training on Monday, raising questions about his availability for Wednesday's Champions League clash against Manchester City.
A recurring knee problem has troubled Mbappé throughout the campaign, with this latest setback marking the third time this season that the same fitness concern has sidelined him. The French striker has been unavailable for Real Madrid's previous three matches in all competitions.
Following consultations with the club, Mbappé traveled from Madrid to Paris to receive specialized treatment for his condition, though he has now returned and could potentially feature in Wednesday's opening leg versus Man City.
Nevertheless, his non-participation in Monday's training session indicates Mbappé remains unfit for match action, with a place among the substitutes possibly the best outcome Real Madrid can expect currently.
Mbappé encountered a comparable scenario earlier in the campaign, ironically also against Man City during the Champions League group stage. Despite being deemed available, he remained on the bench throughout December's 2–1 loss as an unused replacement, evidently not prepared for action.
When Will Mbappé Return for Real Madrid?
When Will Mbappé Return for Real Madrid?
"His condition has improved significantly, but we must proceed cautiously day by day," coach Álvaro Arbeloa informed reporters on Tuesday. "He's returned in positive spirits. We'll monitor his progress step by step."
Officially, Real Madrid have consistently avoided presenting a pessimistic view of Mbappé's physical condition. His inclusion on the bench during December's encounter with Pep Guardiola's team was clearly for show, and similar tactics cannot be dismissed for Wednesday's fixture.
In truth, there are believed to be worries that Mbappé might require an extended period away from action to completely overcome his knee issue, especially if he continues to avoid surgery that would, at this stage, affect his participation in this summer's World Cup.
MARCA report that Real Madrid's medical team aims to restore Mbappé to complete fitness for the second leg against City on March 17, possibly with a brief substitute appearance against Elche this weekend, though this remains uncertain.
Real Madrid's Hectic Schedule
Real Madrid's Hectic Schedule
March presents a demanding schedule for Real Madrid who, in addition to two Champions League fixtures against City, also conclude before the international break with a home Madrid derby versus Atlético on March 22.
Mbappé will aim to recover in time to contribute during the month's final stages, while Real Madrid will be eager to welcome back a player who, despite his persistent knee troubles, has still netted 38 goals in merely 33 appearances across all competitions.
Fitness problems have plagued Real Madrid recently. In the attacking department, Rodrygo has had ACL surgery that will probably sideline him until 2027, while Jude Bellingham is also not anticipated to return until month's end due to a hamstring injury.
The most recent setback, though, occurred in defense, where left-back Álvaro Carreras was declared unavailable for Wednesday's match due to a calf strain.