It's a relief for Real Madrid fans. According to the newspaper AS , Kylian Mbappé will officially be part of the squad traveling to Manchester for the Champions League round of 16 second leg.

Despite a knee injury that has not yet fully healed, progress is deemed sufficient for the French international to rejoin the "White House" squad.

A "super-sub" role at the Etihad Stadium?

The French captain doesn't intend to be a mere spectator. While he's expected to start the match on the bench , his desire to take to the pitch at the Etihad Stadium is immense. However, the medical and coaching staff remain cautious.

1. Strategy: Mbappé will only enter the game if the match scenario requires it.
2. Priority: Take no unnecessary risks in order to preserve it for the end of the season.
3. Medical choice: The absence of surgery was not a calculation linked to the international calendar, but a purely therapeutic decision aimed at healing through specific training.

Real Madrid proved they could score without him

While the return of number 10 is excellent news, Real Madrid have shown that they have resources in his absence, winning comfortably against City in the first leg (3-0) and against Elche (4-1).

Alvaro Arbeloa also emphasized the importance of this collective strength:

“Tomorrow, we’re going to test Kylian and discuss how he feels. His presence would be excellent news, but we’ve proven that other players can finish off attacks. We need to maintain this shared efficiency, even when he returns.”

Uncertainty still hangs over the number of minutes he will be able to play, but the mere presence of Mbappé on the plane to Manchester already changes the dynamic of this European clash.