A major absence at Valdebebas

Real Madrid held its latest training session at Valdebebas ahead of the highly anticipated Champions League showdown against Manchester City, but the session confirmed a significant setback for the Spanish giants.

Kylian Mbappé did not train with the group, effectively ruling him out of the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu. The French forward recently returned to Madrid after spending several days in Paris, where he continued undergoing conservative treatment for the sprain in his left knee.

During training, the striker only completed light running alongside fitness coach Sébastien Devillaz, a clear indication that he is not yet ready to return to competitive action.

Real Madrid’s cautious plan for Mbappé

The coaching staff led by Álvaro Arbeloa is determined not to rush the recovery of its star player. The club’s priority is ensuring that Mbappé fully heals before returning to avoid any setbacks during the decisive stage of the season.

If his recovery progresses well, there is a possibility that the forward could play limited minutes in the upcoming LaLiga match against Elche. That scenario could help him regain rhythm ahead of the return leg against Manchester City, although nothing has been confirmed yet.

Inside the club, there is a clear understanding that the French star will be crucial for Real Madrid’s ambitions in both LaLiga and the Champions League, which is why every step in his recovery will be handled carefully.

Other updates from the squad

The training session also brought additional news regarding the Real Madrid squad. Antonio Rüdiger returned to group training after missing the previous session and is expected to be available for the match against City.

Meanwhile, Carreras has been ruled out after the club confirmed a muscle injury in his right calf, which he suffered following a heavy knock in the match against Getafe.

Eduardo Camavinga, on the other hand, has returned to full training after missing the previous game due to severe tooth pain, although his place in the starting lineup remains uncertain.

Rodrygo and a growing injury list

Another major concern for the club is Rodrygo, who is preparing to undergo surgery after suffering a serious knee injury that will sideline him for an extended period.

In addition to the Brazilian forward, Real Madrid continues to monitor the recovery of key players including David Alaba, Jude Bellingham, Dani Ceballos, and Éder Militão, all of whom remain in different stages of rehabilitation.

With several important absences—including Mbappé—the Spanish giants will face Manchester City in one of the most anticipated matchups of the Champions League without their full arsenal available.

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