Mbappé Doubt Clouds Benfica Decider

Real Madrid face an anxious wait over the fitness of Kylian Mbappe ahead of their decisive play-off second leg against SL Benfica in the UEFA Champions League.

The Spanish giants were forced into the play-off round after a surprise defeat to Benfica in their final group-stage fixture. By a twist of fate, the Portuguese side emerged once more as their opponents in the knockout phase. Madrid secured a slender but valuable 1–0 victory in Lisbon on 17 February, placing themselves in a favourable position ahead of the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.

However, preparations have been overshadowed by concerns over Mbappé’s persistent knee problem. The French forward has been managing discomfort in his left knee for several months. He missed the La Liga fixture against Real Sociedad on 14 February and reportedly experienced renewed discomfort during training earlier this week. According to reports, the club’s medical staff are closely monitoring his condition, with a final decision expected shortly before kick-off.

Although Mbappé completed the full 90 minutes in the first leg in Lisbon, it is understood that featuring again could necessitate a recovery period of at least ten days. With domestic fixtures against Getafe on 2 March and Celta Vigo on 7 March looming, Madrid’s hierarchy are reluctant to risk aggravating the issue at a pivotal stage of the season.

Sources suggest that while the risk of a serious setback is considered low, Mbappé is currently operating at approximately 60 to 70 per cent of his optimal physical capacity. Observers noted some restriction in his movement during the recent 2–1 defeat to Osasuna, raising further questions about whether he should be deployed from the outset.

Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa has publicly praised the forward’s commitment, stating in a pre-match press conference that Mbappé remains determined to contribute. He described the striker as “a match-winner capable of transforming the course of a game in an instant”, underlining the significance of his potential involvement.

Mbappé’s importance to Madrid this season is reflected in his remarkable scoring record:

He also encountered knee trouble in December, missing a key European encounter against Manchester City and featuring only briefly in the Spanish Super Cup in January. Those previous setbacks have informed the club’s cautious approach.

Ultimately, Madrid must balance immediate ambition with long-term prudence. While they hold a narrow aggregate advantage, the decision on Mbappé’s participation could prove decisive—not only for the outcome against Benfica, but for the trajectory of their entire campaign.