Kylian Mbappé did not train with Real Madrid on Tuesday ahead of the crucial Champions League tie against Manchester City, though coach Álvaro Arbeloa said the French striker could return soon.
Mbappé has been sidelined since February 21 due to a knee problem, which also ruled him out of Madrid’s win over Benfica in the Champions League playoffs.
“Well, he’s better. Obviously, we have to take one day at a time and see how he is evolving,” Arbeloa said through an interpreter. “But this week has been positive. He’s back giving a good feeling. And we are looking forward to having him back soon.”
Madrid confirmed that Mbappé, along with other injured players, did not participate in training. It would be a major surprise if he features against City on Wednesday, despite earlier suggestions from Arbeloa that he could return within days.
The French forward’s absence adds to Madrid’s injury woes. Midfielder Rodrygo is out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, and Jude Bellingham, who has been sidelined for over a month, also did not train on Tuesday.