Kylian Mbappé, the French forward from Real Madrid, will not be playing in the Champions League play-off second leg against Benfica due to a left knee injury, according to a close source. The current top scorer in La Liga and the Champions League has been dealing with an injury to the external ligament of his left knee for several weeks. Despite his efforts, he has been forced to withdraw from the match against Benfica, as confirmed by the source. Real Madrid did not immediately respond to the news.
Real Madrid’s coach, Alvaro Arbeloa, praised Mbappé’s dedication and emphasized the player’s importance on the field. Mbappé’s absence was decided after a training session and the pre-match press conference for the play-off.
It was initially expected that Mbappé would “grit his teeth and make an effort for this match,” but ultimately he was advised to rest despite the crucial qualification for the Champions League round of 16 at stake.
/2026/02/24/000-94c79na-699d76c8511b2338206952.jpg "Guillaume Gille leaves his position as coach of the French mens handball team")
