“It’s crazy, it’s not the same as Neymar, he does everything right. I’ll tell you an anecdote, we were doing finishing drills in Paris, Neymar and I were among the best, we scored six or seven out of ten, but he took nine shots and scored nine goals exactly the same, all perfectly placed, and I was looking at the goalkeeper like ‘don’t you see it?’, it’s exaggerated.”

The story not only illustrated Messi’s clinical precision but also the impact he generated even among players used to competing at the highest level. Mbappe’s comments reinforced an idea that had spanned generations, beyond titles or statistics, Messi’s legacy was also built on the admiration of his peers.

The Messi-Mbappe partnership

The connection between Mbappe and Messi at PSG lasted two seasons, from August 2021 to June 2023. During that span, they shared the field in 67 matches, winning two Ligue 1 titles and one French Cup.

The Argentine provided 14 assists to the current Real Madrid player, while the Frenchman returned 20 assists to the Inter Miami forward. Despite forming a powerful attacking trio alongside Angel Di Maria and Neymar, the team led by Mauricio Pochettino did not manage to secure the UEFA Champions League title.

Alongside them, Neymar remained another elite talent, and the chemistry between Messi and Neymar, carried over from their time in Barcelona, combined with Mbappe’s speed and explosiveness, made PSG the most-watched team in the world, producing more than 100 combined goals across all competitions.

However, despite the statistical output and attacking firepower, the trio did not achieve their ultimate objective of winning the UEFA Champions League. Neymar’s injuries at key moments, early round of 16 eliminations against Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, and the lack of defensive balance exposed the challenges of building a team around three superstars of that magnitude.

The March FIFA window was a massive success for Les Bleus. France faced two high-caliber opponents and emerged victorious in both, defeating Brazil and Colombia. These wins provided a significant points boost, allowing them to leapfrog both Spain and Argentina in the standings.

Conversely, Luis de la Fuente’s men saw their ranking suffer. While they gained 1.94 points from a dominant 3–0 win over Serbia, the subsequent stalemate against Egypt proved costly, resulting in a loss of 2.73 points and the loss of their throne.

Argentina also enjoyed a perfect record this window, but the caliber of their opposition limited their progress. Lionel Scaloni’s men gained only 0.63 points from a 2–1 victory over Mauritania and 0.86 points from a 5–0 thrashing of Zambia. The Albiceleste, who held the top spot for much of the post-World Cup era, now sit firmly in third.

How each star performed

Mbappe proved to be the catalyst for France’s climb to the top of the FIFA rankings. The Real Madrid forward was in world-class form during the 2–1 victory over Brazil at the Gillette Stadium, where he scored the opening goal and was named Man of the Match, leading Les Bleus through their toughest test of the window.

In Argentina, Messi continued to be the heartbeat of his team during their 5–0 rout of Zambia. The captain provided the assist for Julian Alvarez’s opener before finding the net himself for the second.

In a moment that captured the headlines, Messi waived his chance to score a second from the penalty spot, instead handing the ball to Nicolas Otamendi, allowing the veteran to score in his emotional final appearance for the national team on Argentine soil.

It was a more frustrated window for Yamal and Spain. The Barcelona starlet struggled to make an impact, failing to record a goal or an assist in the 3–0 win over Serbia or the disappointing draw against Egypt.

Beyond the pitch, Yamal made waves by calling out a section of the crowd following controversial chants during the game vs Egypt, marking a difficult end to a window that saw Spain lose their world No. 1 status.

“10-Day contract?” Mbappe posted to his official accounts, tagging the NBA after sharing a viral video of himself draining a “bucket” using a soccer ball.

While the French captain only saw 12 minutes of action on the pitch—nearly netting a fourth goal before being whistled offside—it was his post-match shooting form that stole the headlines. The playful call-out to the league’s 10-day rule has fans wondering if the world’s most dangerous striker has a “shooter’s touch.”

Could Mbappe actually land a 10-day deal?

In the world of the NBA, the 10-day contract is a standard tool used by front offices to fill roster gaps caused by injuries or to audition fringe talent during the grind of the regular season. Technically, any organization could sign an athlete to such a deal, but don’t expect to see Mbappé in a basketball jersey anytime soon.

While his “bucket” was impressive, the 29-year-old’s basketball resume remains thin. One viral highlight likely won’t convince a GM to burn a roster spot for a three-game stint, but in an era of “sportstainment,” one can never truly rule out a wild experiment.

Chasing history: From the pitch to the paint

If Mbappe ever truly decided to swap his cleats for high-tops, he would become the first elite professional to successfully transition from world-class soccer to the NBA. While rare, the DNA of the two sports has overlapped before.

NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon famously didn’t pick up a basketball until age 15, having spent his youth as a goalkeeper in Nigeria. Similarly, 76ers star Joel Embiid grew up in Cameroon playing volleyball and soccer, often citing the “beautiful game” as his first love before his 7-foot frame guided him toward the rim.

France‘s decision to have Mbappe out of the starting lineup has nothing to do with health concerns. Instead, Didier Deschamps is looking to give the rest of the squad an opportunity to showcase themselves in the last friendly of the FIFA international break in March.

The French national team will put together a completely different lineup from it’s last outing, when Mbappe propelled France past Brazil at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough. Every player that started that game will now be on the bench, and Mbappe is no exception. Still, the French star could make his way to the field if his team needs him against Colombia.

Mbappe’s stats with national team

According to Transfermarkt, Mbappe has played 95 games for France’s senior team, scoring 56 goals for “Les Bleus”. Most likely, he will play his 100th game for France during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, as Mbappe chases his second world championship and his country’s third.

Mbappe set to welcome new coach

So far in his career, Mbappe has only had one manager at the international level. With Deschamps set to leave France after the World Cup, Mbappe is in for a new experience when a new manager takes over the French national team.

According to a report from ESPN, Zinedine Zidane has reached a verbal agreement to be the next manager, meaning two of the best players to ever represent France could soon be working together in a player-coach dynamic.

France’s 2-1 victory over Brazil earned Didier Deschamps’ team 3.96 points, enough to push the reigning world champions down to third place. Mbappe played a decisive role, scoring a standout goal. The cancellation of the Finalissima and the lower coefficient of recent opponents have impacted Argentina’s position, after they had already lost the top spot to Spain following 29 months at No. 1.

The current ranking reflects a tight race at the top. Spain lead with 1877.18 points, followed by France with 1873.96, while Argentina sit third with 1873.33. Portugal climb to fifth place and could strengthen their position with a win in their next match against Mexico, even without Cristiano Ronaldo due to injury. Brazil drop to sixth, while England remain fourth.

The top 10 of the ranking

The most relevant movements are those already mentioned, but this is a list to monitor closely ahead of the World Cup, as it includes the main contenders for the title. Here is the top 10:

1. Spain (1877.18)
2. France (1873.96)
3. Argentina (1873.33)
4. England (1834.12)
5. Portugal (1760.38)
6. Brazil (1756.49)
7. Netherlands (1756.27)
8. Morocco (1754.59)
9. Belgium (1730.71)
10. Germany (1724.15)

Expectations for the end of the window

Beyond the battle at the top, the update also reflects interesting movement among other teams in the region. Chile are the South American side that gained the most ground, moving up three positions to 52nd after a win over Cabo Verde.

It is important to note that this ranking remains provisional in terms of its full statistical impact. The official FIFA ranking will be released once the entire international window concludes, when all match results are accounted for, including Argentina’s game at La Bombonera, which could help them recover lost ground.

Per a Marca report, Alexander-Arnold was benched by manager Alvaro Arbeloa as a punishment for being late to a training session. Arbeloa wants discipline on the squad and now, this has sent TAA to the bench. Follow Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid live with us and catch all the action from the game!

As for Bellingham and Mbappe, they’re recovering from injuries and Arbeloa is limiting their playing time to not risk re-injuring them. Mbappe is managing a persistent left knee injury (ligament inflammation/sprain), while Bellingham is coming from a six-week absence due to a hamstring injury.

When was the last time Mbappe and Bellingham played?

Mbappe logged in some minutes mid-week in the Champions League during the game against Manchester City. He played around 20 minutes. It’s likely he will play around the same amount of minutes today.

As for Bellingham, this would be his first game since February 1st. Both Bellingham and Mbappe are crucial players for Real Madrid, but they’ll have to wait for their opportunity to play from the bench.

Alexander-Arnold’s situation is far more complicated

Alexander-Arnold is flat out facing a disciplinary action. His first season in Madrid has been quite underwhelming. Now, he is not starting a key game against bitter rivals Atletico, who will also deal with a huge absence of their own as Jan Oblak isn’t playing today either.

Arnold has struggled to stay healthy and, when playing, he’s been very inconsistent. In fact, Thomas Tuchel left him out of England’s squad for the upcoming friendlies, less than a 100 days from the World Cup.

Mbappe has missed recent matches with a knee problem suffered in late February, with his last appearance being in Real Madrid’s LaLiga game against Osasuna on Feb. 21. The injury forced him to sit out five games in all competitions.

Still, Real Madrid received a boost ahead of the second leg as he was included in the traveling squad for the trip to Manchester. While he may not be at full fitness, his potential involvement could be significant.

When did Kylian Mbappe rejoin the Real Madrid squad?

Kylian Mbappe rejoined the Real Madrid squad on March 16, 2026, when he was included in the traveling roster for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg against Manchester City.

The French forward returned after recovering from a knee injury that had kept him out of several matches in recent weeks. Real Madrid confirmed his return when the club released its squad list for the trip to Manchester.

The striker traveled with the team along with other players returning from injury, including Jude Bellingham, giving the Spanish side an important boost ahead of the decisive knockout match.

Real Madrid’s lineup in Manchester with Mbappe on the bench

In the days leading up to the Champions League clash with Manchester City, Mbappe resumed training and gradually rejoined team activities. His progress allowed the club to include him in the matchday squad, and he could come off the bench if needed.

Real Madrid’s starting eleven today: Thibaut Courtois, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Antonio Rudiger, Dean Huijsen, Fran Garcia, Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde, Arda Guler, Thiago Pitarch, Brahim Diaz, Vinicius Jr.

This marks the fifth consecutive match Mbappe has missed. His absence began after a Champions League knockout victory over Benfica, followed by a league defeat to Getafe, a win over Celta Vigo, and the recent 3–0 thumping of Manchester City.

“The situation is not complicated. He’s getting better every day. His recovery is progressing as it should,” Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa explained during his Friday press conference. “We’ve made a plan, and it depends on his progress, but I think he’ll be fine”.

The recurring knee issues for the 27-year-old began in December following an injury against Celta Vigo. Although he continued to play through discomfort while Real Madrid fought to stay in the title race and Champions League, the medical staff has now mandated a conservative treatment plan to avoid long-term damage.

Optimism ahead of the rematch against Manchester City

Real Madrid carry significant momentum into the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16 following a dominant 3–0 victory over Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabeu. The hero of the night was Federico Valverde, who delivered a historic first-half hat-trick to dismantle the Citizens.

As the Spanish Giants prepare for the return leg at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, March 17, head coach Arbeloa expressed strong optimism regarding Kylian Mbappe’s availability.

While the French forward remains ruled out for today’s domestic clash with Elche, Arbeloa confirmed the plan is for Mbappe to travel to Manchester. “He won’t be available tomorrow [vs. Elche], but I expect he’ll travel to Manchester,” Arbeloa told reporters.

However, the medical staff remains cautious. Mbappe’s availability for the starting XI will be a day-to-day evaluation. Given the comfortable 3–goal aggregate lead, Arbeloa may opt to keep the superstar as a reserve to avoid any risk of re-aggravating his LCL injury, prioritizing his long-term fitness for the final stretch of the season.

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.

Mbappe is currently sidelined with a sprain in the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) of his left knee. This injury is a recurrence of a lingering issue that has troubled the forward since December.

This marks the third consecutive match Mbappe has missed, following his absence from the Champions League victory over Benfica and the recent 1-0 league defeat against Getafe.

While there is no exact date for his return, his status for Wednesday’s massive Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabeu remains highly uncertain.

Arbeloa remains positive about Mbappe’s status

The timing of the injury is particularly difficult for Real Madrid, who are entering a decisive stretch of the season. Mbappe has been in world-class form, netting 38 goals in 33 appearances across all competitions this season. In his pre-match press conference, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa expressed optimism regarding the striker’s progress.

“I talk to him every day. We are closely monitoring his recovery and how he feels,” Arbeloa told reporters. “He is getting better every day; it’s a day-by-day process based on his sensations. As of today, it’s all good news. He’s steadily improving”.

France prioritize long-term fitness ahead of 2026 World Cup

The injury status of Mbappe has become a primary concern for France as they finalize their preparations for the 2026 World Cup. According to reports from the prominent French outlet L’Equipe, head coach Didier Deschamps is prepared to leave the Real Madrid superstar out of the squad for the upcoming March international window.

The decision to rest Mbappe for high-profile friendlies against Brazil and Colombia stems from a mutual agreement to prioritize his long-term fitness. With the World Cup less than 100 days away, Les Bleus are opting for a cautious approach, allowing the forward to focus entirely on rehabilitating the knee sprain that has hampered his recent campaign in Spain.

The Merengues will be without their top scorer, Mbappe, who misses his second consecutive match following his absence in the Champions League playoff return against Benfica. The No. 10 has been sidelined with a sprain in the lateral collateral ligament of his left knee, an issue he has carried since December.

Real Madrid confirmed the injury in an official statement: “After the tests carried out on our player Kylian Mbappe by French medical specialists, under the supervision of the Real Madrid Medical Services, the diagnosis of sprained left knee and the suitability of the conservative treatment that is being followed are confirmed. Pending evolution.”

Mbappe will also miss the LaLiga match on Friday at Balaidos against Celta. His presence in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Manchester City is highly unlikely, though he is expected to be available six days later for the return in England.

Madrid’s attack without Mbappe

The French forward has scored 23 goals in 23 LaLiga matches, representing nearly 50% of Real Madrid’s total tally through two-thirds of the season, making him the key figure in Arbeloa’s system.

Without Mbappe, the team’s attack against Getafe will be led by Vinicius Junior. The Brazilian has elevated his performance in 2026, scoring in five consecutive matches. Gonzalo Garcia continues as the center forward, while Rodrygo Goes waits on the bench as an option, having missed the last three league matches.

Real Madrid’s absences against Getafe

Mbappe is not the only first-team player unavailable for Arbeloa. Raul Asencio is out with a neck injury sustained in a collision with Eduardo Camavinga against Benfica, along with lingering oral discomfort. Additional absences include Jude Bellingham, Eder Militao, and Dani Ceballos.