Mbappé’s Paris trip raises hope – but the clock is ticking

Closer, yet still far away. Far from the 100% form that once allowed Kylian Mbappé to look Cristiano Ronaldo in the eye – at least statistically (59 goals in a calendar year; 38 in 33 games this season). But closer nonetheless, because “he’s getting better every day.” Arbeloa said so on Thursday, firmly and with confidence. He made it clear the communication has been constant: “Of course I speak with him… every day.” He also explained the recovery process: “We have what’s happening to him under control.” The explanation matters, just as the questions do.

While Madrid lost to Getafe and the squad prepared for Celta, Mbappé was in Paris. He arrived Monday seeking a second opinion. Today he returns with the same diagnosis as Real Madrid’s doctors: a sprain in his left knee – and patience.

Those four days have fueled hope. The first step was placing himself in the hands of Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet, a renowned French orthopedic specialist who confirmed the initial assessment made at Valdebebas. Then the work began, against the clock, alongside Sébastien Devillaz, the right-hand man of fitness coach Antonio Pintus, and Willy Zurdo, Mbappé’s trusted physiotherapist. The trip was made in coordination with the club, consistent with the philosophy of medical chief Niko Mihic, who favors seeking second opinions to confirm diagnoses. Four days that have turned what once looked impossible – being available for the first leg against Manchester City on Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. ET – into something merely “complicated.” Difficult, but not impossible. That is the message from the club, and it’s how Mbappé feels as well. He wants to be there and has not ruled it out.

Mbappé’s route

But the trip also gave Mbappé time to enjoy Paris. According to French media, he met up with his friend Achraf Hakimi and several former teammates. He was also spotted strolling through the capital with his mother, Fayza Lamari, where they were photographed at Messika, the luxury jewelry boutique associated with celebrities such as Beyoncé, Kate Moss, Julianne Moore and Orlando Bloom. Now Mbappé can be added to that list.

Eighty-nine days and counting

From today, the race against time truly begins. Another one in a long ordeal that dates back to Dec. 7 against Celta. That was 89 days ago. His knee gave way that night and, despite pushing through the discomfort – particularly while chasing the record of 59 goals in a calendar year – the issue has not fully disappeared. The lingering problem hasn’t stopped him from scoring: 13 goals in 12 games since that night against Celta. But it has also slowed him down, forcing him to miss seven games. That inconsistency is exactly what both the club and the player want to end. The problem is that Madrid’s season is on the line. And Mbappé wants to be part of it.

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