Why is Kylian Mbappé not playing for Real Madrid against Manchester City today in the Champions League?
The French attacker was not listed in the squad to face Pep Guardiola’s side.
Real Madrid take on Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg without their main attacking threat, Kylian Mbappé.
The French forward was ruled out of the game with an injury that has also seen him miss Real Madrid’s last 3 games as he recovers.
A recurring knee issue is the problem, with the player reportedly suffering pain back in December. However, he played through it until he was forced to drop out of the team, missing games against Celta Vigo, Getafe, and the second leg against Benfica.
⚽️ 67 #UCL goals for Mbappé pic.twitter.com/oknIJuDGru
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) January 28, 2026
“He’s much better... this week has been very positive”
Prior to this current period of absence, Mbappé missed a number of games, and started on the bench as City travelled to the Bernabéu in mid-December, all due to the same physical issue.
So far this season, across 33 games, Mbappé has scored 38 goals and provided 6 assists in all competitions, proving himself to be Real Madrid’s biggest threat in front of goal. However, their record without Mbappé is perhaps surprising, as Los Blancos usually find a way to win.
As for whether or not he will be fit for the second leg, Arbeloa was cautiously optimistic: “He’s much better,” he said. “As I’ve said in recent weeks, it’s about taking it day by day and seeing how it evolves. But this week has been very positive. He’s come back with great feelings and is improving every day.”
Real Madrid host Manchester City at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday 11 March at 16:00 ET. You. can follow the game on our AS USA live feed.
@asusaofficial 🚨 ALARM IN MADRID! Mbappe’s knee issue is causing concern at Real Madrid and the player has a tough decision to make ahead of the World Cup of how to manage it. #realmadrid #mbappe #worldcup
♬ ''Night''-Lil Baby×EST Gee Type Beat - LRUI17
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