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Real Madrid have been handed a significant concern ahead of their upcoming clash against Real Betis, with head coach Xabi Alonso confirming a knee injury to Kylian Mbappe that could sideline the French star for several weeks.
The update comes at a crucial point in the season, with Los Blancos chasing Barcelona at the top of La Liga and navigating a demanding fixture schedule.
Kylian Mbappe diagnosed with knee strain
Speaking to the media, Alonso revealed that Mbappe was diagnosed with a knee strain earlier in the week. While the initial assessment suggests the forward is expected to be unavailable for at least three weeks, the Real Madrid boss stopped short of offering a definitive return date.
“We’ll try to make it happen quickly, it depends a lot on how he feels, but we’ll try to get him back as quickly as possible,” Xabi Alonso said. “When is as soon as possible? That’s the question. I don’t know.”
The uncertainty surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s recovery adds another layer of complexity for Real Madrid, particularly with key domestic and European fixtures on the horizon.
Mbappe’s absence a major blow for Real Madrid
Mbappe has been central to Real Madrid’s attacking output this season, leading the team with 29 goals across all competitions in just 24 appearances. Alonso was quick to highlight that the impact of the Frenchman extends far beyond his goals.
“We have to find the best way to fit the pieces together. Kylian wasn’t at the Club World Cup and he performed well, but will certainly be missed because his performance has been impressive, not only for his goals but also for the influence he has,” Alonso explained.
With Madrid trailing league leaders Barcelona by four points, every match carries added significance, making Kylian Mbappe’s potential absence against Real Betis particularly notable.
Squad depth under the spotlight
Despite the setback, Xabi Alonso stressed the importance of squad unity and belief in the players available for selection. Madrid manager emphasized that injuries are part of the season and that trust in the wider squad remains essential.
“Injuries are never welcome, but we have to have a lot of confidence in those who will start tomorrow and those who will play on Thursday against Atlético. We’re a squad, the union and trust is mutual. Solidity and team spirit is essential,” he said.
Rodrygo praised, Carvajal returns
Alonso also offered a positive update by confirming the return of captain Dani Carvajal, while praising Rodrygo’s recent form as Real Madrid explore solutions to compensate for Kylian Mbappe’s absence.
“He played some very good games at the end of the year… we need him, like everyone else,” Xabi Alonso noted. “To make up for Kylian’s absence we have different options, and Rodrygo is one of them.”
The coach added that final squad decisions would be made closer to kickoff, citing the need for certainty regarding player fitness.
“He did the full training session today and he did so yesterday. We’ll decide on the squad tomorrow morning because there are things that we prefer to wait until there are certainties.”
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