Kylian Mbappe sidelined with knee ligament injury in major blow for Real Madrid

The club confirmed on Wednesday that medical tests revealed the knee sprain, adding only that Mbappe's recovery would be monitored. The 27-year-old did not train midweek and is expected to miss Sunday's LaLiga clash with Real Betis at the Santiago Bernabeu. Sources close to the player have indicated he could be ruled out for at least three weeks, placing his involvement in the Spanish Supercopa in serious doubt.

Madrid are due to travel to Saudi Arabia for the Supercopa, where they face Atletico Madrid in a semifinal on January 8, with a potential final against either Barcelona or Athletic Club three days later.

The injury could also force Mbappe to miss further league action and key Champions League fixtures, including a meeting with former club Monaco, at a time when Madrid are chasing Barcelona at the top of the table.

Mbappe's absence would be keenly felt. The France international has been a central figure this season, scoring 29 goals in all competitions, including a league-high 18. He ended 2025 by matching Cristiano Ronaldo's club record of 59 goals in a calendar year, having started every LaLiga match so far.

The knee issue has lingered in recent weeks, however, and Madrid now face a period without their most influential attacking presence as they begin the new year.

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