Watch: Real Madrid superstar offers positive injury update as he nears full fitness | OneFootball

Real Madrid could soon receive a major boost ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League showdown with Manchester City, as Kylian Mbappe continues to make steady progress in his recovery from injury.

The French forward has been working hard after suffering a sprained left knee, and he is targeting a return for the Champions League round of 16 second leg next Tuesday at the Etihad Stadium.

The stakes for the match are already extremely high. Real Madrid head into the second leg with a comfortable advantage after securing a 3-0 victory in the first meeting between the two sides. 

While Real Madrid already hold a strong position, Mbappe’s potential return could provide an extra boost for the squad ahead of the decisive clash.

Encouraging signs

The French international recently gave everyone an encouraging update through social media. 

On Friday, Mbappe shared a video from his training session at the Real Madrid City, showing him back on the pitch and working with the ball again.

The footage showed the French star running drills, striking the ball with power, and completing shooting exercises toward goal. 

The session suggested that his knee condition is improving steadily as he moves closer to returning to full fitness.

Earlier in the day, Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa had already offered a positive update during his press conference. 

The manager expressed confidence that the upcoming La Liga match against Elche would likely be the final game Mbappe misses.

What now?

During Friday’s session, Mbappe trained individually after the official media period had ended. 

Away from the rest of the squad, he completed endurance work with the ball while also testing his shooting ability. 

Several powerful attempts on goal suggested that his left knee is responding well during the recovery process.

The injury dates back to December 7, when Mbappe suffered the sprain that has disrupted his rhythm throughout the early months of 2026.

So far this year, the forward has only been able to feature in nine of Real Madrid’s 17 matches, and the upcoming La Liga clash against Elche will mark the fifth consecutive game he has missed.