Real Madrid coach confirms star player will be fit to play vs Benfica – “I think he’ll be available” | OneFootball

Real Madrid were able to momentarily claim the top spot in La Liga once again, thanks to a 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad at Santiago Bernabeu.

What was particularly impressive about Real Madrid’s victory is that the team was able to pull that off without the services of their top scorer Kylian Mbappe.

The Frenchman was left on the bench owing to fitness concerns after he had been struggling with an injury.

While there were expectations he would later come on as a substitute, Arbeloa opted not to play him at all, as Real Madrid cruised to a 4-1 victory.

Arbeloa’s update on Mbappe fitness

Mbappe’s lack of minutes against Sociedad led to fears that he may not be able to play much in the key game against Benfica this midweek.

Arbeloa believes Mbappe will be fit vs Benfica. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

However, in the post-match presser, coach Arbeloa has confirmed that the Frenchman confirmed he will be available against Benfica.

“Mbappé has been dealing with this discomfort for quite some time. He’s putting in a huge effort every time he goes out on the pitch, and today we decided not to take any risks ahead of Tuesday. I think he’ll be available,” he said (h/t Diario AS).

This comes as a major boost for a Real Madrid team, who were humbled by Benfica in the league phase, losing 4-2.

Given the magnitude of this two-legged clash, and what it would mean for Arbeloa’s future, Real Madrid would be keen on avoiding a repeat of that mishap.

Mbappe’s return, therefore, should be integral as he has been undisputedly the club’s best player this season, racking up as many as 38 goals in all competitions this season.