Mbappé & Bellingham Return for Real Madrid vs Man City
Real Madrid received a significant boost ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League second leg against Manchester City with the inclusion of both Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham in the travelling squad. Yet, manager Álvaro Arbeloa confirmed that Bellingham will not feature in the match, despite his unexpected return to the team.
Mbappé has been sidelined since with a sprain in his left knee, missing five matches including Real Madrid’s dominant 4-1 LaLiga victory over Elche. His recovery has progressed sufficiently to warrant a place in the squad for the crucial European tie, though his match fitness remains a consideration.
Bellingham’s inclusion is perhaps even more surprising. The England midfielder hasn’t played since due to a muscle injury, and initial reports, including those from ESPN, suggested he wouldn’t be back in action until April. Even England coach Thomas Tuchel had expressed doubts about Bellingham’s availability for the upcoming international break. Arbeloa acknowledged the unexpected nature of Bellingham’s return, stating, He wanted to approach here with his teammates, to be with the team.
He will participate in parts of the training regimen but will not be risked in the match.
The news arrives as Manchester City grapple with their own challenges. Following a 1-1 draw against West Ham United in the Premier League on , Pep Guardiola’s side now trail league leaders Arsenal by nine points, with Arsenal having played one game more. The Premier League title, once a strong possibility for City, is looking increasingly out of reach. Adding to their woes, City suffered a 3-0 defeat to Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Real Madrid’s first-leg victory, secured without Mbappé or Bellingham, was highlighted by a hat-trick from Federico Valverde. The potential return of two key players for the second leg at the Etihad Stadium significantly alters the dynamic of the tie. Whereas Mbappé’s fitness will be carefully monitored, his presence alone provides a considerable threat to the City defense. He has already scored 13 Champions League goals this season.
Arbeloa downplayed any concerns about integrating Mbappé back into the team, suggesting the squad has adapted well in his absence. The team’s recent form, including the 4-1 win over Elche where several academy players were given opportunities due to the injury crisis, demonstrates a resilience and depth that could prove crucial in the remaining stages of both the Champions League and LaLiga campaigns.
The Spanish publication Marca reported on that Mbappé is training normally, offering further encouragement to Real Madrid supporters. The report indicated that the club is keeping the option open for Mbappé to play against Manchester City, a development that could significantly impact the outcome of the tie.
The second leg promises to be a high-stakes encounter. Real Madrid carry a comfortable 3-0 lead, but Manchester City’s desperation to salvage their Champions League hopes, coupled with the potential return of Mbappé and the presence of Bellingham offering support from the sidelines, sets the stage for a compelling match. City will need to overcome not only the first-leg deficit but also the psychological advantage gained by Real Madrid through their recent injury recoveries.
While Bellingham’s absence from the starting eleven is confirmed, his presence within the squad provides a leadership boost for Real Madrid. Arbeloa emphasized Bellingham’s importance to the team, stating, He’s a player who is a leader. It’s key to have him here with us.
His experience and influence, even from the bench, could be invaluable as Real Madrid seek to secure their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.