Alarm bells are ringing once again around Real Madrid. Kylian Mbappé has been struggling with discomfort in his left knee since December, when the club officially confirmed a sprain. Since then, the French striker has been managing the pain, often deciding himself whether he was fit enough to take the field.

The latest episode occurred ahead of the clash against Benfica. After feeling discomfort again during Tuesday’s training session, Mbappé chose to stop and consult additional medical specialists to determine the precise source of the pain — something that still has not been fully clarified. The forward wants to pinpoint the exact origin of the issue before making any definitive decision.

The Spanish Super Cup, including the final against Barcelona in Jeddah, highlighted the risks involved. The initial plan was for him to rest for several weeks to avoid pushing the injured joint to its limits, but those plans were ultimately scrapped and he ended up playing. Since then, the physical sharpness he displayed in the early months of the season has gradually faded.

The upcoming World Cup further complicates the situation. Any surgical solution could jeopardize his participation with the French national team — a scenario the player is not willing to consider for now. As a result, he remains committed to a conservative treatment plan under the supervision of the club’s medical department, led by Nico Mihic.

With no official medical update since December, there is growing talk at Valdebebas of an actual injury rather than mere discomfort. Madrid need his talent and goals, but above all, they need a fully fit Mbappé — not a player moving in and out of the lineup due to recurring pain.

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