Kylian Mbappe, a forward for Real Madrid, will not play in the second leg of the Champions League play-offs against Benfica because he aggravated his knee injury during practice on Tuesday.

Following manager Álvaro Arbeloa’s indication that he would be fit, the France international was anticipated to play.

But when the problem reappeared, Mbappe reportedly left the training early, which led the club to leave him out of the team for the pivotal European match.

For the last three months, Mbappe has been treating a sprained knee. Before making a comeback to play 90 minutes against Benfica in Lisbon and then against Osasuna in Pamplona, he had missed the Spanish Super Cup and missed a league match against Real Sociedad.

The attacker will also miss the forthcoming La Liga game against Getafe, according to Diario AS.

According to reports, he has decided to temporarily suspend play in an attempt to thoroughly address the issue, with a comeback match versus Celta Vigo scheduled for March 7, 2026.

El Chiringuito has stated that minor surgery may still be necessary if Mbappé’s knee does not improve, despite the majority of reports suggesting he might return in March.

In order to balance healing with availability, the 27-year-old has thus far pursued conservative treatment.

According to reports, Mbappé is eager to be totally healthy for the Champions League Round of 16 if Real Madrid advances, which is their goal.

The forward should put long-term fitness ahead of short-term risk because a big international tournament is coming up in the summer.

For at least two pivotal games, Madrid will be missing one of their main attacking threats due to his absence.

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