Álvaro Arbeloa reports positive updates on Kylian Mbappé’s injury recovery at Real Madrid.
Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa has stated that Kylian Mbappé’s recovery from injury is “all good news” despite the ambiguity surrounding the timeline for the star forward’s return to the squad.
Mbappé is currently dealing with a sprain in his left knee, as confirmed by the club earlier this week, which has been an issue since December, with no specific return date established.
Madrid will face Celta Vigo in LaLiga on Friday, followed by next week’s Champions League round-of-16 first leg against Manchester City, a league match against Elche, and the return leg at City on March 17th.
“Of course, I communicate with [Mbappé] daily,” Arbeloa mentioned during a news conference on Friday. “It’s under control; he improves every day. I’ve indicated that it’s a process where we will proceed day by day based on his feelings. At this moment, it’s all good news.”
Mbappé was absent from last week’s Champions League playoff second leg against Benfica, as well as Monday’s 1-0 defeat at the Bernabéu to Getafe, which left Madrid four points behind Barcelona in the title race.
Madrid are also missing the injured Jude Bellingham, who is anticipated to return in April as he recovers from a hamstring issue.
In recent days, Mbappé and Bellingham have traveled back to France and England, respectively, to seek guidance on managing their injuries, with Madrid stating on Monday that French doctors concurred with “the appropriateness of the conservative treatment” the club has chosen for Mbappé.
“All matters regarding injuries — Jude in London, Mbappé in Paris — are coordinated by Real Madrid’s medical services and physical department,” Arbeloa noted. “Mbappé traveled to Paris with Real Madrid staff… Everything is overseen by Real Madrid.”
Madrid have suffered consecutive losses in LaLiga, falling to Osasuna and Getafe, as they strive to keep pace with Barça in the title race.
“At a club like Madrid, a defeat is always challenging to handle,” Arbeloa remarked. “It’s four points. As long as we can compete mathematically, we will do so. And even then, we will continue to fight.”
– Rodrygo (torn ACL) out for season, to miss World Cup
– Madrid confirm Mbappé knee sprain, opt for conservative approach
– Mbappé a doubt for Man City UCL clash, admits Arbeloa
Two notable signings from last summer, Dean Huijsen, 20, and Franco Mastantuono, 18, have faced scrutiny from fans and the Madrid media regarding their performances in recent weeks, with some jeers directed at Huijsen from the crowd at the Bernabéu.
“Consider Mastantuono: the under-19s team is filled with players of his age,” Arbeloa stated. “At Huijsen’s age, he could be playing for [reserve team] Castilla. Recall what transpired with Vinícius, how people discussed him, and now he has two Champions Leagues; he’s among the best in the world. We must exercise patience.”
