Kylian Mbappe a serious doubt for Real Madrid's Champions League playoff against Benfica
The French striker is unlikely to feature Wednesday due to ongoing left knee discomfort sustained since December.
4 hrs ago
Kylian Mbappe is a serious doubt for Real Madrid's Champions League playoff decider against Benfica on Wednesday due to continued discomfort in his left knee, according to club sources.
The 27-year-old French striker has been experiencing knee pain since December, missing several matches during that period including a home win over Real Sociedad in La Liga this month and the Supercopa de Espana semi-final against Atletico Madrid. Despite the injury, Mbappe played 90 minutes in Madrid's last two games, including the first leg victory against Benfica in Lisbon.
Mbappe was reported to have been in discomfort towards the end of Tuesday's training session, with club staff expressing pessimism about his chances of recovering in time for Wednesday's match. A source close to the club indicated that a final decision on his participation would take place Wednesday after discussions between Mbappe and Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa. However, sources close to the player believe he is unlikely to be in a condition to feature.
The injury involves the lateral ligament of Mbappe's left knee. He is currently the leading scorer in both La Liga and the Champions League. Real Madrid has not made an official statement regarding his status for the match.
Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa told the press on Tuesday that Mbappe was ready to play Wednesday, noting that the situation had been known for several weeks and highlighting the player's dedication despite the injury.