Mbappé misses second straight training session, doubtful for Real Sociedad clash
The French star continues to nurse a knee issue with Madrid taking zero risks ahead of Champions League tie, while Rüdiger edges closer to return
Real Madrid’s marquee man Kylian Mbappé remains confined to the gym for a second consecutive day, throwing his availability for Saturday’s clash with Real Sociedad into serious doubt.
Knee troubles continue
The French superstar is still dealing with discomfort in his left knee, following a specific recovery plan to finally shake off the niggles that have been bothering him since late last year. Madrid are taking absolutely no chances with their prize asset, especially with the Champions League knockout tie against Benfica looming large.
A final decision on Mbappé’s involvement against La Real won’t be made until Friday’s pre-match preparations, with his progress in the coming hours being closely monitored. But it’s crystal clear the club’s approach is one of zero risk when it comes to their number nine.
Defensive reshuffle
Mbappé wasn’t the only absentee from group training. Raúl Asencio is currently battling a flu bug, though this isn’t expected to rule him out of Saturday’s match. The young central defender has become a key figure for Álvaro Arbeloa, despite playing through the pain barrier with a tibial fracture.
With Asencio suspended for the Benfica clash and Antonio Rüdiger now back in contention, Arbeloa has some thinking to do:
- Rüdiger hasn’t featured since January 8th due to knee problems
- The German is now fully available after a month on the sidelines
- Saturday could be perfect timing to reintroduce him to competitive action
- Getting minutes against Sociedad would prepare him for Champions League duty
The Carvajal situation
Meanwhile, all eyes are on Dani Carvajal ahead of the weekend. The tension between the captain and manager Arbeloa has reportedly eased significantly following clear-the-air talks between the pair on Tuesday.
The right-back’s chances of getting minutes against Real Sociedad now appear much stronger, suggesting their previous disagreements might be water under the bridge - good news for the Madrid faithful.