Confirmed: Mbappe out of Madrid-Benfica clash

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has been ruled out of the club’s Champions League play-off second leg against Benfica after aggravating a knee injury during training on Tuesday.

The France international had been expected to feature after manager Álvaro Arbeloa indicated he would be fit.

However, Mbappe reportedly left the session early as the issue resurfaced, forcing the club to omit him from the squad for the decisive European tie.

Ongoing knee concern

Mbappe has been managing a knee sprain for the past three months. He previously missed the Spanish Super Cup and sat out a league fixture against Real Sociedad before returning to play 90 minutes against Benfica in Lisbon and later against Osasuna in Pamplona.

 

According to Diario AS, the forward will also miss the upcoming La Liga match against Getafe.

Reports indicate he has opted to temporarily halt activity in an effort to resolve the problem fully, targeting a return against Celta Vigo on March 7.

Surgery not ruled out

While most reports suggest Mbappé could return in March, El Chiringuito has indicated there remains a possibility of minor surgery if the knee does not improve.

The 27-year-old has so far pursued conservative treatment to balance recovery with availability.

Real Madrid are aiming to secure progression to the Champions League Round of 16, and Mbappé is reportedly keen to be fully fit for that stage if the club advances.

With a major international tournament looming in the summer, the forward is expected to prioritise long-term fitness over short-term risk.

His absence leaves Madrid without one of their primary attacking threats for at least two crucial fixtures.