Kylian Mbappe, the star forward for Real Madrid, is currently dealing with a significant knee injury that he sustained in 2025, which has caused him to miss the last two matches for his team. This injury, specifically to the external ligament of his left knee, has not only sidelined him from key games but has also raised concerns about his availability for the highly anticipated Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Manchester City on March 11.

Real Madrid has been monitoring Mbappe's recovery, but recent reports indicate that he is still experiencing 'persistent pain' and has not been included in the squad for a recent La Liga match against Getafe. The absence of Mbappe is a substantial blow for the team, considering his pivotal role in their attack and the critical nature of the upcoming match against City, which is expected to be a decisive clash in the Champions League.

The situation has ramped up the pressure for Real Madrid as they prepare for a challenging match against one of Europe’s top clubs. Fans and analysts alike are concerned about how Mbappe's potential absence could impact the team's performance in the Champions League, especially after a transfer that has placed high expectations on his contributions. As the date approaches, the club’s management will need to assess whether he can return to form in time for the match against Manchester City, which could ultimately determine Real Madrid's fate in the tournament.