Kylian Mbappé has been listed as a substitute for Real Madrid as they prepare to face Manchester City at home in the Champions League this Wednesday, due to concerns about his fitness.
Mbappé missed the training session with his teammates on Tuesday at Valdebebas after experiencing a muscular issue, prompting the club to postpone the announcement of the squad until the completion of medical evaluations.
According to a source, while Mbappé has been eager to play, he is not expected to be at full fitness.
In his absence, Gonzalo García will spearhead the attack for Madrid, joined by Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo.
This season, Mbappé has scored 25 goals across all competitions, contributing nine goals in the Champions League for Madrid.
The upcoming match at the Bernabéu is vital for Madrid’s coach, Xabi Alonso, who is facing increased scrutiny following a tough run that saw only one win in the last five La Liga matches, including a 2-0 defeat to Celta Vigo on Sunday.
Reports suggest that Madrid president Florentino Pérez held discussions with club officials regarding Alonso’s position following the loss to Celta.
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In Madrid’s last Champions League match, Mbappé netted four goals in a thrilling 4-3 victory over Olympiacos, following a hat trick against Kairat Almaty and two goals versus Olympique Marseille. However, he did not find the net in matches against Juventus and Liverpool.
Real Madrid will also be without seven other key players for the match against City, including Dean Huijsen and Eduardo Camavinga, who were both omitted from the squad.
Other absentees include Éder Militão, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy, Dani Carvajal, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.