❌ Madrid confirm it: Mbappé left out of the squad to face Benfica | OneFootball

Real Madrid faces the decisive second leg of the Champions League play-offs with a major absence. Kylian Mbappé will not be part of the squad traveling to face the Portuguese side due to persistent discomfort in his left knee. 

The absence of the French star is a significant setback for Álvaro Arbeloa’s plans. The Madrid coach loses his main attacking reference in a match where the team needs to be at its best in front of goal.

According to the club’s medical staff, the goal is to avoid a more serious injury that could jeopardize the final stretch of the season.

The ‘Fantastic Four’ from Castilla on the list

In light of Mbappé’s absence and injuries in midfield, Arbeloa has decided to look to La Fábrica. The squad list is notable for the inclusion of four Castilla academy players: Cestero, Manuel Ángel, Palacios, and Thiago. 

Real Madrid will seek a place in the round of 16 at the Santiago Bernabéu, relying on their fighting spirit and the depth of a squad that will have to overcome physical setbacks.

The match presents itself as a trial by fire for a dressing room eager to prove that there is life beyond its biggest stars. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA - AFP or licensors