Manchester – After 24 days and missing five matches, Kylian Mbappé is poised to return to the pitch. Recovering from a sprained left knee and dealing with lingering discomfort for several months, the Real Madrid forward has completed his rehabilitation and a much-needed period of rest. He’s been included in the squad for Tuesday’s Champions League round-of-16 second leg against Manchester City, and is expected to feature, before joining up with the French national team.
But first, he has a job to do in England. Real Madrid holds a significant advantage, having won the first leg 3-0 at home. Manager Álvaro Arbeloa and his squad aim to finish the job, and the return of their leading goalscorer is a major boost. Arbeloa expressed confidence on Friday that Mbappé would travel to Manchester, and confirmed on Monday that the forward is “available” for selection, though he remained coy on how much playing time Mbappé will receive. “You’ll see tomorrow,” he said with a smile.
Arbeloa, stepping in for Xabi Alonso, didn’t hide his satisfaction at having “the best player in the world” back in the squad. “Kylian brings different qualities than players like Brahim [Diaz],” he explained. “He’s an extremely intelligent player. He has many qualities, but I think intelligence is paramount: he’s a player capable of positioning himself very well in the spaces left by the opponent. I’m looking forward to seeing him on the pitch again, enjoying his goals, but similarly his play, because he will be a very important player.”
Indispensable with Les Bleus
Following this crucial European fixture and ahead of a highly anticipated Madrid derby on Sunday in La Liga, Kylian Mbappé faces another important moment on Thursday when Didier Deschamps announces the squad for two upcoming international friendlies against Brazil and Colombia, to be played on March 26th and 29th in Boston and Washington, respectively. The France captain, for whom the World Cup remains the ultimate goal, will participate in the mini-American tour.
However, it’s not guaranteed that he will play in both matches. As always, the French staff will carefully manage the playing time of their star attacker, who was previously excused from traveling to Iceland and Azerbaijan in October and November 2025 due to recurring ankle pain. His inclusion in the starting lineup for the prestigious match against Brazil, managed by his former Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, is probable. Three days later against Colombia, it appears less certain.
Even if he wasn’t fit to play, Mbappé would likely have accompanied the group to the East Coast of the United States. His presence carries a strategic dimension for the French Football Federation (FFF), extending beyond the purely sporting aspect. With promotional operations, commercial commitments, and media solicitations already planned around the tour, his absence would be difficult to fill, as Mbappé remains the only player whose popularity transcends European borders.
His participation is further underscored by the event being part of a major partnership with Nike. The American sportswear giant, which organized this overseas tour, is linked to the Federation until 2034 by a contract estimated at around €100 million per year. The presence of the French team’s star player is essential, both for image and exposure.
The return of Mbappé comes at a critical juncture for Real Madrid, who are navigating a challenging injury situation. Jude Bellingham, also named in the traveling squad, won’t feature on Tuesday due to a muscle injury, but is reportedly traveling with the team to maintain morale and support his teammates. Arbeloa confirmed Bellingham “wanted to be here with his teammates,” and is “doing a part of his training,” but won’t play. This highlights the team’s resilience and determination as they push for Champions League glory.
The stakes are high for Real Madrid. While they hold a comfortable lead in the first leg, Manchester City is a formidable opponent, and a trip to the Etihad Stadium is always a daunting task. A win would secure their place in the quarterfinals, while a loss could open the door for a dramatic comeback by the English champions. The match is scheduled for Tuesday at 8:00 PM local time (3:00 PM ET/21:00 UTC).
Beyond the immediate Champions League clash, Mbappé’s fitness is also crucial for Real Madrid’s La Liga title aspirations. Currently trailing Barcelona by four points, Los Blancos cannot afford any further setbacks. The upcoming Madrid derby against Atlético Madrid will be a pivotal match in the title race, and having their star striker available will be vital.
For the French national team, Mbappé’s return is equally significant. With the European Championship on the horizon, Deschamps will be eager to have his captain in top form. The friendlies against Brazil and Colombia will provide valuable opportunities to assess Mbappé’s fitness and integrate him back into the team dynamic.
The coming weeks promise to be a defining period for Kylian Mbappé and his teams. His return to the field is a welcome sight for fans of Real Madrid and France, and his impact on both sides will be closely watched.
Next up for Real Madrid is the Champions League clash with Manchester City on Tuesday, followed by the Madrid derby on Sunday. The French national team will then announce their squad on Thursday, setting the stage for the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Colombia.
What are your thoughts on Mbappé’s return? Will he be the difference-maker for Real Madrid against Manchester City? Share your predictions in the comments below!
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