Mbappé retires injured after extending the lead

Real Madrid's match against Villarreal was overshadowed in the 81st minute when Mbappé twisted his right ankle and, after receiving medical attention, had to leave the field. He walked unaided to the tunnel after being replaced by Rodrygo. The incident came just minutes after he had scored the final goal to make it 3-1, which completely dismantled the opposition's defense.

Xabi Alonso initially downplayed the seriousness of the injury, assuring that initial indications did not suggest serious damage. However, the sporting scenario calls for caution given the tight schedule.

Official diagnosis: mild sprain and expected downtime

Real Madrid later confirmed that Mbappé had suffered a mild sprain in his right ankle, with no significant ligament damage. The estimated recovery time is between 7 and 10 days, depending on how he responds to treatment and physiotherapy.

The Frenchman is expected to start proprioceptive exercises and anti-inflammatory therapy on Monday. The focus will be to regain mobility while minimizing risk. Young midfielder Franco Mastantuono also ended the match with hamstring tightness and has been prescribed rest.

Though not serious, the injury halts Mbappé’s impressive form — he had scored in five consecutive games prior to this setback.

France on alert: national team call-up in question

The timing of the injury is far from ideal. France face Azerbaijan on October 10 and Iceland on October 13 in World Cup qualifying, and Mbappé’s participation remains uncertain. The French captain will be monitored daily by the national team’s medical staff.

Head coach Didier Deschamps has been in contact with Real Madrid’s doctors to coordinate his evaluation. If Mbappé’s recovery is incomplete, he will remain in Madrid to continue treatment at Valdebebas. The plan is for him to be ready for Real Madrid’s October 19 clash against Getafe.

Tight schedule and recovery management at Valdebebas

Real Madrid’s calendar offers little breathing room. Just three days after the Getafe match, on October 22, Los Blancos will host Juventus in the Champions League. With that in mind, the club will handle Mbappé’s return with caution to avoid aggravation.

In his absence, Rodrygo will likely take on the right flank role with more freedom inside, while Vinícius Junior continues as the primary offensive outlet. The medical and fitness staff will implement a progressive reintegration plan with controlled workloads and constant evaluation.

For Real Madrid, every point counts and risking Mbappé too soon is not an option.