Álvaro Arbeloa was clear in his post-match press conference after Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Benfica regarding Kylian Mbappé’s situation.

“Mbappé had to leave training. He has felt discomfort on other days as well, and we initially decided he could continue. But after yesterday’s session, I spoke with the doctors and with him, and we agreed it was best for him to rest and return at 100% for what’s coming next. Now we wait. Hopefully it’s only a matter of days,” Arbeloa explained.

The French forward will not return to action until he is fully recovered from his knee issue. While the club has not disclosed the exact diagnosis, internal optimism remains. According to Cadena COPE, Real Madrid are confident Mbappé could be back within a couple of weeks, with the aim of having him available for the Champions League Round of 16 first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu against either Manchester City or Sporting Lisbon.

Arbeloa declined to provide medical specifics: “We have a diagnosis, but it’s not for me to reveal. We know exactly what’s going on, and the priority is for him to recover fully,” he stated.

The coach did confirm that Mbappé “wasn’t comfortable” and made it clear: “If he’s not playing, it’s because he’s injured.”

In the meantime, Real Madrid will have to cope without their top scorer. Gonzalo stepped up as the main attacking reference against Benfica and is expected to lead the line again on Monday against Getafe.

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