Will Kylian Mbappé be back for Real Madrid vs Manchester City in the Champions League second leg?

Kylian Mbappé was one of several key absentees for Real Madrid as they took on Manchester City in the first leg of the 2025-26 Champions League round of 16 at the Bernabéu.

The French superstar had missed the previous three games because of a recurring knee issue, which Mbappé has reportedly been dealing with since December. However, the former PSG star played through the problem until he was forced to drop out of the team, missing games against Celta Vigo, Getafe and the second leg of the Champions League playoff against Benfica.

Arbeloa offers positive Mbappé injury update

There is, however, cause for optimism looking ahead to the second leg, with Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa revealing Mbappé was “much better” ahead of Wednesday’s first game against City.

“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,” said the Real Madrid head coach.

Real Madrid targeting return for Manchester City second leg

The extent of Mbappé’s injury has been something of a mystery for several weeks, although it looks as if the saga could soon be over.

Although it does not appear the forward will be risked in the LaLiga game at home to Elche on Saturday, Madrid hope to have Mbappé back in the squad when they face City in Manchester next Tuesday, although there are no guarantees.

Jude Bellingham, who has been absent since the start of February with a hamstring problem, is in a similar position. Rodrygo, however, is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after tearing his ACL.

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