Mbappé Returns for Man City Clash as Bellingham Ruled Out

Kylian Mbappé is set to make his return for Real Madrid in their Champions League clash against Manchester City, but Jude Bellingham will miss out despite travelling with the squad.

Mbappé, 27, has recovered from a left knee sprain that had kept him sidelined since late February, and is now fit to feature in the second leg of the last-16 tie.

In contrast, Bellingham continues to recover from a hamstring injury sustained during a La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano in early February. Although initially expected to return within weeks, the injury proved more serious than first anticipated.

Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa confirmed that while Bellingham travelled to support the team, he will not be available for selection.

“Bellingham wanted to be with his teammates and will take part in some training, but he won’t play,” Arbeloa said. “Mbappé is ready, and we’re looking forward to having him back. He will be a key player for us.”

Despite his absence, Bellingham’s presence around the squad is expected to provide a morale boost as he edges closer to full fitness. His recovery will also be closely monitored ahead of England national football team friendlies later this month.

Real Madrid head into the match in a commanding position after a dominant 3-0 win in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Federico Valverde netted a first-half hat-trick.

The scoreline could have been even more emphatic, but Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Vinícius Júnior from the penalty spot early in the second half.

With Mbappé back in contention, Real Madrid will look to finish the job in Manchester and secure their place in the next round.