Champions League: Mbappe, Bellingham return for Manchester City clash
Real Madrid have confirmed their squad for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie against Manchester City, with Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham included after recent fitness concerns.
The Spanish giants travel to England holding a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first leg, where Federico Valverde scored a remarkable hat-trick to put the tie firmly in Madrid’s control.
Manager Alvaro Arbeloa announced the travelling squad on Monday, confirming the return of several key players ahead of the clash at the Etihad Stadium.
Mbappe boost for Madrid
The biggest headline from the squad list is the return of Mbappe, who had missed Madrid’s last few matches due to a knee injury.
Although the French forward is not expected to start the game, his availability provides a significant boost for Madrid as they look to secure progression to the quarter-finals.
Bellingham has also been named in the squad despite ongoing concerns about his match fitness, leaving the possibility open that the England international could feature in some capacity.
Defensive returns and notable absences
Madrid have also welcomed back Alvaro Carreras after recovering from a recent knock, while experienced defender David Alaba returns to the squad.
However, several players remain unavailable. Ferland Mendy and Raul Asencio have not recovered in time and will miss the trip to Manchester.
They join Rodrygo Goes, Eder Militao and Dani Ceballos on the list of absentees.
Arbeloa has again turned to several academy prospects, with youngsters Diego Aguado, Jorge Cestero, Manuel Angel, Cesar Palacios and Thiago Pitarch included in the squad. Castilla defender Mario Rivas has also been called up.
Meanwhile, Argentine talent Franco Mastantuono returns to the squad after missing the weekend league match through suspension.
With a three-goal cushion from the first leg, Madrid will look to manage the tie effectively as they attempt to book their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.