Kylian Mbappé caught in tug-of-war between Real Madrid, French FA and Nike over recovery | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappé arrived in Madrid on Sunday evening from Paris to see trusted specialists about a persistent knee problem, intensifying a tug of war between Real Madrid, the French federation and Nike.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, he met French surgeon Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet, nicknamed Doctor Miracle, an eminent knee expert at the FIFA-recognised Centre Orthopédique Santy in Lyon.

The proposed plan is intensive functional reconditioning, beyond Madrid's conservative, quadriceps-focused work. Pain and instability persist, and the player remains wary of ligament risk.

Madrid want him for the tie with Manchester City, targeting the return in Manchester at worst and even a bench role at the Bernabéu on Wednesday. A cameo could also ease recent image scrutiny after he was filmed out in Paris while team-mates struggled.

The French federation urges caution, warning that rushing rehabilitation could jeopardise his place at next summer's World Cup. Didier Deschamps has spoken to him and excused him from France's March fixtures on the United States tour.

Nike wants him to front Les Bleus' visit to the United States with major activations planned, though it is not pushing for him to play.

The decision rests with Mbappé, who joined Madrid to chase major honours, above all the European Cup. Sticking to Sonnery-Cottet's schedule could prime him for the World Cup, yet club needs and commercial plans pull the other way.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo