Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé is ready to return from injury as the Spanish giants prepare to face Manchester City in the Champions League last‑16 second leg at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.
- Injury Comeback: Mbappé missed Real’s 3‑0 first‑leg victory in Madrid due to a knee injury, but manager Álvaro Arbeloa confirmed he is fit to play. “Mbappé is ready to play. Of course he’ll be important,” Arbeloa told reporters.
- Season Form: The French star has been in sensational form, scoring 38 goals in 33 appearances this season.
- Squad News: England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also traveled with the squad as he recovers from a hamstring injury, though he is not expected to feature. Arbeloa noted Bellingham’s presence as vital for team morale and leadership.
- Defensive Focus: Real defender Antonio Rüdiger highlighted the importance of containing City striker Erling Haaland, who has struggled for form recently. “I like the physical battle… he’s a world‑class striker,” Rüdiger said.
- Context: Real Madrid are aiming to knock Manchester City out of the Champions League for the third consecutive season, having established a commanding first‑leg advantage.
