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Mbappé Knee Injury Casts Doubt on Benfica Clash

ESPN Soccer •
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Kylian Mbappé is unlikely to feature for Real Madrid in Wednesday's Champions League playoff second leg against Benfica due to ongoing knee discomfort, sources have told ESPN. The French forward, who has scored 23 goals in LaLiga and 13 in the Champions League this season, felt pain during training on Tuesday after already missing Madrid's February 14 match against Real Sociedad.

Madrid's medical team has been managing the issue for months, with Mbappé operating at approximately 60-70% of his ability when he does play. The club won the first leg 1-0 in Lisbon on February 17, with Mbappé playing the full 90 minutes. Sources indicate that if he were to feature against Benfica, he would likely require a 10-day break afterward, though the club does not believe he risks exacerbating the injury.

The timing is particularly challenging for Madrid, who face Getafe on March 2 and Celta Vigo on March 7 following the Benfica match. Coach Álvaro Arbeloa acknowledged the situation in Tuesday's press conference, praising Mbappé's commitment while noting the forward's readiness remains uncertain. The injury adds another layer of complexity to Madrid's congested fixture schedule as they pursue multiple trophies this season.