Real Madrid Injury Update: Kylian Mbappe latest details, recovery timeline

Spanish giants Real Madrid CF were finally back to winning ways in the UEFA Champions League 2024-25 group phase, but their joy was not an ideal one as star forward Kylian Mbappe left the field with an injury in the first half itself, raising concerns among fans and teammates.

Real Madrid won the game 2-3 against Atalanta, after two back-to-back losses in the UCL. They are back in the race for a top-eight spot, currently placed 18th after the game. But now, with Kylian Mbappe injured, if the extent turns huge, this will be a blow for Carlo Ancelotti’s plans in the season further, which has already been hampered by plenty of more simultaneous injuries. So surf below to find out Kylian Mbappe’s injury update, impact on the Real Madrid squad, possible replacements, expected date of return, and much more of the associated things you need to know.

Kylian Mbappe Injury Update

Just after the halfway mark of the UEFA Champions League game Atalanta vs Real Madrid CF, Kylian Mbappe was seen facing discomfort in his leg, and so was made to walk his way out to the touchline in the 36th minute. He was subbed by Rodrygo. At that moment, Real Madrid were leading the game by a goal, scored by Mbappe himself in the 10th minute from a Brahim Diaz assist.

Later after the match ended, Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti cleared the air of concerns regarding Kylian Mbappe’s injury, stating,  “It doesn’t look serious.” He also highlighted, elaborating more about the situation, “He has an overload, a little discomfort in his hamstring. We will have to see him in the next few days. It doesn’t seem serious, but he had to stop because he couldn’t sprint”. As per MSN, further tests will be conducted on Thursday.

Impact of Kylian Mbappe Injury on Real Madrid Squad and Strategy

Kylian Mbappe joined his dream club Real Madrid from Paris Saint Germain only this summer after four long seasons filled with speculation. But the big move hasn’t been a hit yet. He is often seen fitting in as a striker, a position he hasn’t been very comfortable with from his usual wing. As a result, there has been an effect on his scoring, and more importantly Real Madrid’s usual winning tone.

It is very essential for Mbappe to shine at the club, as otherwise, this would hamper the Frenchman’s career and Real Madrid trophy hunt. Things were looking to take some shape as he was gradually adjusting to the new system. But now, after the blow, Real Madrid lack proper natural strikers to fill the role. They have quality wingers and young centre-forwards. But, none would match Mbappe’s potential. So missing him is one of the biggest blows to their attacks.

Carlo could however make the wing comprising Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, Brahim Diaz and many more talented players take the central role. This would however mean making minimal attacks from the centre, and most from the wings.

Possible Replacements and Tactical Adjustments

Carlo Ancelotti is not expected to make much change in the formation. They are expected to make a three-man attack, as usual, or what we can say is a 4-2-3-1 formation. But tactically the game plan would change entirely in Mbappe’s absence. The defending La Liga and UEFA Champions League winners implemented a system where most attacks were crafted for Kylian to finish, now the attacks will be shifted to Vinicus Jr., and whoever starts in the right wing. This would make the wingers stay more upfront.

There are many players in the club’s squad who can be temporarily placed as a striker. Ideally, it should be the young Brazilian CF Endrick. But he hails low experience, so either Vinicius or Rodrygo (who subbed him) shall be used alternatively.  

Kylian Mbappe Return date

The exact return date for Kylian Mbappe is not known yet, as further tests to know the extent of the injury is not known yet. But since manager Carlo Ancelotti it isn’t a serious blow, we can expect the star forward to return soon, and not miss many games.

However, the coach also added that the injury was for “overload”, and they need to observe in the coming days, so he can be rested for some games. Real Madrid are scheduled to play Rayo Vallecano next, before taking on Intercontinental Cup finalists, Sevilla FC, and Valencia CF. These sides are not having good form, so resting Mbappe for the next couple of games won’t turn out to be a big deal at the star-studded camp.

Also Read: Know how much will Kylian Mbappe earn every year, month, day and minute at Real Madrid

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