The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash between Manchester City and Real Madrid was expected to feature a headline battle between Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé, two of Europe’s most prolific goal scorers.

However, the French forward’s knee injury has cast serious doubt over whether the highly anticipated duel will actually take place.

What happened to Kylian Mbappé at Real Madrid?

Since December, following a match against Celta, Mbappé has not been fully fit due to a left knee sprain.

The issue kept him doubtful during the Super Cup and ruled him out of the second leg against Benfica in the Champions League Playoffs.

The French star is currently following a conservative treatment plan, aiming to avoid surgery while also keeping an eye on the 2026 World Cup.

Mbappé and Haaland: two of Europe’s elite scorers

Despite his physical setbacks, Mbappé is enjoying an impressive season with 38 goals and six assists in 33 matches for Real Madrid.

Meanwhile, Haaland has recorded 29 goals and seven assists in 38 appearances for Manchester City.

The potential face-off between the two was one of the main attractions of the tie, but Mbappé’s fitness concerns could change the narrative.

Watch beIN SPORTS Xtra live for free on YouTube