Concern has gripped Real Madrid after Kylian Mbappé’s left knee injury recurred, forcing him to miss group training and ruling him out of the Champions League match against Benfica, despite the team already having secured qualification for the Round of 16.
A period of absence that could extend for weeks
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Medical tests confirmed a tear in the lateral collateral ligament of his knee, recommending a period of complete rest of at least two weeks, potentially up to three, to avoid any complications that could worsen the situation before this crucial stage of the season.
According to reports, Mbappé had played through the pain in previous matches before the club decided on a “forced rest” after the condition reached a critical point that could threaten his participation.
Tension behind the scenes
Reports indicate that the player is dissatisfied with how his injury has been handled recently, believing that the pressure to play in major matches has exacerbated his physical condition.
Mbappé has made his position clear: he will stop all activity until he is 100% fit, and he has refused to use painkillers again, amid growing speculation about the possibility of surgery if the current treatment program does not achieve the desired results.
The specter of surgery and the 2026 World Cup
French medical reports have stressed the need to handle the injury with caution, especially given the player’s ambition to be at his best for the 2026 World Cup.
If conservative treatment does not work, surgery could become an option, potentially resulting in an absence of up to two months, a scenario neither side wants to face.
A major blow before upcoming challenges
Mbappé’s absence represents a significant attacking loss, particularly with the possibility of facing top clubs like Manchester City in the upcoming knockout stages.
The coaching staff will rely on Vinicius Junior, along with other young players, to compensate for the absence of the French star, who has scored 38 goals across all competitions this season.
Perez’s administration faces a tough test
Spanish reports indicate a strained relationship between Mbappé and the medical staff, with the player preferring to consult his private doctors in France. This presents Florentino Pérez’s administration with a real challenge to manage the situation and ensure the best possible care.
Real Madrid now enters a crucial stage of the season amidst uncertainty surrounding the fitness of its star player, at a time when both La Liga and European competitions cannot afford any further setbacks.
