Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has forcefully dismissed recent claims suggesting that Kylian Mbappe’s knee injury was initially misdiagnosed by the club’s medical team back in December. Additionally, he confirmed the eagerly awaited return of Eder Militao, who is now fit to play after a four-month absence.
Mbappe had been struggling with persistent knee issues for nearly three months, appearing unable to fully recover. His most recent three-week layoff marked his longest period out, during which he sought a second medical opinion in France. Reports last week indicated that Real Madrid had initially scanned the incorrect knee in December, leading to the prolonged recovery time. Mbappe himself denied these reports, a stance echoed by Arbeloa on Friday.
“What Kylian has stated over the past few days is entirely untrue,” Arbeloa asserted. “It’s time for us to move past his knee problem and concentrate on his objectives. He must return to the high performance level he has consistently demonstrated.”
‘Bellingham’s Case Was Unusual’ – Arbeloa
In contrast to Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, who experienced notable injury setbacks during the international break, Arbeloa expressed satisfaction that his squad members returned unscathed.
“Fortunately, all our international players have returned healthy, which was our main goal,” Arbeloa commented. “It’s been a largely positive break for most of them, as they’ve had valuable playing time. We are fully aware of the challenges of tomorrow’s match, as Mallorca is just as desperate for points as we are. We’re prepared. Playing away from home immediately after a break is always tough. We have nine ‘finals’ remaining, and tomorrow’s game is the first of them.”
This included Jude Bellingham, who traveled with the England squad but ultimately did not feature. Reports suggested that Real Madrid was somewhat displeased with manager Thomas Tuchel’s decision to call him up despite his recent injury.
“His situation was somewhat unusual,” Arbeloa explained, “because he played some minutes against Atletico, but Tuchel opted not to play him for England. They wisely decided not to take any unnecessary risks. Jude is intelligent enough to have utilized the training sessions effectively. He is ready to contribute tomorrow, and we need him to regain his full match fitness.”
“I didn’t have specific plans regarding his playing time; that’s a decision for the national team coach, as it is in any country,” Arbeloa stated. “However, there’s no issue with him not having played for England, just as there wouldn’t have been if he had. I’m pleased to have him back, and from now on, we will gradually reintegrate him into the team.”
‘Decision on Vinicius Later’
Speculation in the Spanish capital suggested Arbeloa might rotate his squad for Saturday’s away match against RCD Mallorca at Son Moix. However, the Real Madrid manager appeared hesitant to implement significant changes.
“My intention is to put out the strongest team capable of winning the match,” Arbeloa declared. “We face three incredibly demanding fixtures in just six days, leaving no margin for error. Therefore, I will select the best possible lineup for tomorrow. As I often emphasize, we will need every single player, and that statement is proving increasingly accurate.”
Specifically, reports indicated that Vinicius Junior might be rested following his intensive commitments during the international break.
“He’s fine, completely fine. Just tired,” Arbeloa commented with a laugh. “Clearly, ‘Carletto’ [Carlo Ancelotti] hasn’t given him much rest! However, the demands at Real Madrid are quite similar to those with the Brazilian national team. He’s accumulated a significant number of minutes, but we’ll make a decision on his involvement later.”
Eder Militao’s Return Confirmed
Fellow Brazilian Eder Militao rejoined full training last week. After a four-month recovery period from a hamstring tear, Arbeloa confirmed his reintegration into the squad, accompanied by high praise for the defender.
“He’s making his return,” Arbeloa stated confidently. “When he’s fully fit, he will undoubtedly be the best center-back in the world. Although I haven’t had the opportunity to coach him directly yet, he is an exceptional central defender. His talent and leadership will be an immense asset to us. He’s a player who can truly change a game, and we are absolutely delighted to have him back.”
With Militao’s return to fitness, Real Madrid’s injury list is shortened to include only Ferland Mendy, Thibaut Courtois, and Rodrygo Goes. Dani Ceballos and Raul Asencio are also anticipated to be declared fit soon.
