Kylian Mbappé will be in Manchester, and not just to support the team from the stands. The French forward wants to be available for the second-leg match against Manchester City. His knee has shown positive progress and the player has made himself available to Álvaro Arbeloa to help finish the job.

“Kiki” has been training in Valdebebas, and the treatment applied to his knee is producing encouraging results. It is worth remembering that the medical staff decided to opt for a conservative procedure to avoid surgical intervention.

This does not mean Mbappé is fully recovered, but his commitment to the team is total. It would not be the first time he has made an effort like this: he already did so in the Super Cup, when he traveled to Saudi Arabia to face Barcelona despite not being at one hundred percent physically.

Real Madrid Won’t Take Any Risks

Although the recovery is progressing well, the coaching staff at Real Madrid are clear about one thing: they will not risk the player. No unnecessary chances will be taken with the French star unless the tie becomes complicated.

Real Madrid arrive at the Etihad Stadium with a significant advantage, which makes the decision easier for Arbeloa. The idea is not to use Mbappé unless the situation in the match makes it absolutely necessary.

In France, they are also closely monitoring the striker’s situation. On the near horizon are two important friendlies against Brazil and Colombia, but the main objective is the next World Cup. A serious injury to Mbappé could significantly reduce Les Bleus’ chances of winning their third world title.

For now, Mbappé is available, but unless the match enters a critical stage, it is likely the forward will play only limited minutes — or possibly not feature at all — in Manchester, in a tie that appears to be well under control for Real Madrid.

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