The absence of Kylian Mbappe has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of the clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, to be broadcast in the USA by DAZN.
The French striker has been dealing with physical problems in recent weeks, with reports of the club indicating a sprain in his left knee that has forced the club’s medical staff to manage his minutes carefully.
The issue has already caused him to miss several matches across competitions, and Real Madrid have opted not to risk worsening the injury during one of the most physically demanding fixtures of the season. Follow our liveblog of Real Madrid vs Manchester City and don’t miss a single thing!
What happened to Kylian Mbappe?
Mbappe is not playing because he is dealing with a sprain in his left knee that has sidelined him during a crucial stretch of the season for Real Madrid. The issue dates back to late December 2025, when the French star first experienced discomfort in his knee during a training session with the club.
Shortly afterward, Real Madrid’s medical staff confirmed that he had suffered a sprain in his left knee, an injury that required careful management rather than immediate surgery. Although he continued to play, the problem gradually became more concerning.
By late February 2026, the situation forced the club to take a more cautious approach. Mbappe began missing training sessions and matches as the medical staff worked to prevent the injury from worsening.
Real Madrid later released an official medical update confirming the knee sprain and stating that the player would undergo conservative treatment while doctors monitor his recovery.
When will Kylian Mbappe return to play?
There is no exact return date for Kylian Mbappe yet, but Real Madrid hope he could recover in time for the second leg against Manchester City. The club has been monitoring his progress carefully as he continues treatment.
According to reports, the French forward has been showing positive signs during recovery and the coaching staff has not ruled out the possibility of him being available for upcoming matches if his knee continues to improve.
Because the Champions League knockout stage is played over two legs, the timing of his recovery could be crucial. If he is able to return for the second leg, his presence could provide a major boost to the attacking options.
“It was a bit of a consensus between everyone, and we think the best thing is that he stops, that he recovers and comes back at 100%. It’s not going to be a question of days; it will be a bit longer, but I can’t say how long. Hopefully not too long“, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa said via BBC Sport.
How does Mbappe’s absence affect Real Madrid?
Mbappe’s absence removes Real Madrid’s most explosive attacking threat and forces the team to adjust its offensive approach against Manchester City. He is widely considered one of the most decisive players in world soccer.
Without him, they lose a player who can stretch defenses with his pace and generate scoring opportunities both in transition and in one-on-one situations. His ability to play across the front line also gives the team tactical flexibility, something that becomes harder to replicate when he is unavailable.
The situation is even more challenging because Real Madrid entered the match dealing with several other injuries in the squad. Multiple key players were unavailable for the first leg, leaving the coaching staff with fewer attacking options against one of Europe’s strongest teams.