By Martin Graham
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has been diagnosed with a sprain to his left knee, with the club confirming that no operation is planned at this time.
The 27-year-old France international has been dealing with a problem affecting the external ligament in his left knee since late 2025.
He was absent from last week’s Champions League play-off second leg against Benfica and later travelled to Paris to undergo additional medical assessments.
Madrid stated that tests verified the knee sprain and that the player will proceed with a conservative recovery programme.
Mbappe’s representatives added that he was in the French capital alongside members of the club’s medical team to fine-tune his rehabilitation and prepare for his return.
Absence against Getafe and doubt over Manchester City clash
The striker missed Monday’s La Liga meeting with Getafe as he continues his recovery.
His participation in next week’s first-leg Champions League last-16 encounter against Manchester City remains uncertain.
A statement from his camp confirmed that, in agreement with Real Madrid, further evaluations are being carried out to optimise his treatment plan.
At this stage, surgery is not being considered as part of the process.
Arbeloa explains decision to allow full recovery
Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa previously said the choice to give Mbappe time to fully heal was made collectively.
The French forward has registered 38 goals in 33 appearances for the club this season.
Arbeloa stressed that prioritising a complete recovery was viewed as the best course of action by all parties involved.
He indicated the layoff would extend beyond just a few days, though he could not provide a precise timeframe for Mbappe’s return, expressing hope that the absence would not be prolonged.