Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa confirmed that Kylian Mbappe will be ready to play against Manchester City in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16.
The French star has been sidelined for almost a month after suffering a knee injury that required complete rest to prevent further damage and the need for surgery.
Reports had been conflicting regarding Mbappe’s return to action, with French newspapers suggesting he would be out until at least April.
On Friday, Arbeloa addressed the press conference ahead of the Elche match, answering journalists’ questions about Mbappe’s expected return date and undoubtedly pleasing Real Madrid fans.
“Mbappe is doing very well,” Arbeloa said. “He won’t be available tomorrow (against Elche), but we are confident he will be ready to travel with us to Manchester.”
He added, “We will see how he is in training, and we will make the final decision on Sunday.”
Real Madrid secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, with all three goals scored by Fede Valverde, before heading to the Etihad Stadium next Tuesday for the return leg.
It’s worth noting that the 26-year-old Mbappé has made 33 appearances for Real Madrid this season, scoring 38 goals and providing 6 assists.
