Álvaro Arbeloa issues Kylian Mbappé injury update with Manchester City showdown looming

“We want Kylian Mbappé back at 100 percent, and he’ll return when that happens. We’re very clear about what’s going on with him and what we want right now, which is for him to recover fully.”

That’s how Real Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa explained the situation surrounding the French superstar, without giving a timeline for his return. Not even for the Champions League tie against Manchester City that Madrid will face in ten days.

Meanwhile, the coach is pleased with the outstanding form of Vinícius Júnior, giving the player full credit.

“I don’t know if I’ve pressed the right button,” he said. “As a coach, my job is to help the team find him in as many situations on the field as possible.”

Arbeloa previews Real Madrid vs. Getafe

Facing a difficult opponent

Asked about the upcoming match against Getafe, a team known for making games uncomfortable, Arbeloa said Madrid is fully focused.

“We’re doing well, very eager to play, and aware of how tough the opponent is,” he said. “They’re very well coached and have a manager who always gets the best out of his players and his team. They’re a very uncomfortable opponent, capable of making games tight and taking them to their kind of match. We know how difficult it will be tomorrow and we’re excited to play at home in front of our fans and get the three points.”

The latest on Mbappé

Arbeloa insisted the club has a clear plan regarding Mbappé.

“We’re very clear about what’s going on and what we want right now, which is for him to recover from these issues and return at 100 percent when he’s fully ready.”

Asked again about whether Mbappé could play in the first leg against City, Arbeloa declined to set a timeline.

“We’ll take it day by day. It’s about how he feels. Right now it’s better not to give deadlines and just see how he progresses. Based on that, we’ll make decisions. We want him back at 100 percent, and when that happens, he’ll return.”

He also confirmed that Mbappé was absent earlier in the week with the coach’s permission.

Champions League showdown with Manchester City

The upcoming UEFA Champions League tie against City already has fans excited.

“It’s going to be a fascinating matchup between two great clubs,” Arbeloa said. “It’s a tie that Real Madrid fans really enjoy because of the stature of the opponent. When the time comes, we’ll prepare for it as best we can.”

Young talent and attacking options

Arbeloa also spoke about young midfielder Thiago Pitarch and the opportunities he could receive.

“He’s very quick and you can see what he’s capable of giving. He’s extremely dynamic, with great work rate and movement. His biggest quality is his personality. He always wants the ball and doesn’t feel pressure even when he’s under it.”

He added that academy players often adapt quickly because they understand what the coach expects.

“Thiago will continue to get opportunities with the first team. It’s a pleasure to have a player like him.”

As for other attacking options such as Franco Mastantuono, Brahim Díaz, and Rodrygo, Arbeloa said everyone has a role.

“There’s room for all of them. This isn’t about a fixed system. The key is using the different abilities our players have to create different things on the field. When we make changes, it’s not because someone is playing badly, but because we want something different.”

Rodrygo’s importance and Bordalás’ influence

Arbeloa believes Rodrygo can be decisive once again for Madrid.

“He should be extremely important. He can be a fundamental, game-changing player. He’s shown his quality at Real Madrid for many years. He can help us in all three attacking positions. He’s very complete and very difficult to defend.”

He also praised Getafe coach José Bordalás.

“He’s been in LaLiga for many years and every season, no matter which players he has, he gets the most out of them. His teams are faithful to his style. You know exactly what you’re going to face when you play against him. They defend very well and are extremely well organized.”

Playing in a World Cup year

With the next FIFA World Cup approaching, Arbeloa was asked how players balance club and international duty.

“I’ve never understood anything other than giving everything for your club and then doing the same for your national team,” he said. “I don’t understand players saving energy. The best way to prepare is by performing at your club.”

Keeping an eye on rivals and Vinicius’ rise

Arbeloa said he watches other LaLiga games when possible, including matches involving Barcelona.

“Whenever I can, I watch games from all the teams in the league. Most of our time goes into our matches and our opponents, but we all enjoy watching other teams play.”

As for Vinicius’ outstanding form, Arbeloa again credited the player himself.

“I don’t know if I’ve pushed any particular button. The credit goes to Vini, who’s a fantastic player. I give him confidence and support, and we work so that teammates look for him and take advantage of his qualities. He’s a decisive, fundamental player. As a coach, my job is to help the team find him in many situations on the field.”

Building a team without a preseason

Despite being in charge for less than 50 days and already coaching 11 matches, Arbeloa said stability has been key.

“It’s always easier to build a core group and then integrate players around it. We didn’t have a preseason or many training days, so creating those on-field connections is important. It’s easier to do it this way and let players grow into the team’s rhythm. At the same time, the squad has been performing very well, and they’re earning that continuity.”

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