Kylian Mbappé will miss his sixth straight match for Real Madrid against Manchester City due to a knee injury. His absence is felt as the team looks to defend their aggregate lead.
Key moments
Kylian Mbappé will be absent for the sixth straight Real Madrid game as they face Manchester City in the Champions League on March 17, 2026. This marks a significant loss for the team, as Mbappé has not played since February 21, 2026, due to a persistent knee injury that has troubled him since December 7, 2025.
Despite his absence, Mbappé remains Real Madrid’s top scorer this season, having netted an impressive 38 goals in 33 games. His contributions have been vital for the team, particularly in high-stakes matches such as this one against Manchester City, where Real Madrid secured a 3-0 victory in the first leg.
Real Madrid’s head coach, Álvaro Arbeloa, expressed confidence in Mbappé’s recovery, stating, “[Mbappé] is getting better every day, his progress is what it should be.” However, he confirmed that the star forward will not start in the upcoming match, although he has been included in the squad. Arbeloa noted, “He will not be there tomorrow, but I’m confident he will travel to Manchester,” indicating a cautious approach to Mbappé’s return.
Mbappé has participated in the last two group training sessions with Real Madrid, demonstrating a notable improvement in his left knee injury. However, sources indicate that the club will not risk his participation until he is fully fit. As one source stated, “Real Madrid will not risk Kylian Mbappé, as he does not appear to be at full fitness.” This decision reflects the team’s strategy to ensure their key player is in optimal condition for future matches.
Real Madrid is currently looking to defend a significant aggregate lead against Manchester City, and the absence of Mbappé is felt deeply within the squad. The starting lineup for the match will include other key players such as Vinicius Jr. and Brahim Díaz, who will be tasked with stepping up in Mbappé’s absence.
In the broader context of LaLiga, both Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal are currently valued at €200 million, making them the most valuable players in the league. This highlights the high expectations placed on them and the impact of their performances on their respective teams.
As the match approaches, reactions from fans and analysts alike underscore the importance of Mbappé’s recovery. His ability to return to full fitness will be crucial for Real Madrid as they navigate the latter stages of the Champions League. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timeline for his return, but the club remains optimistic about his recovery.
