Real Madrid received a significant setback yesterday when star forward Kylian Mbappe was absent from training, just a day after participating in an open session with fans on 30/12/2025.

In a statement released at the end of 2025, Real confirmed that Mbappe had suffered a left knee sprain. However, the club did not provide an estimated recovery timeline for the French international.

According to French newspaper L'Equipe, Mbappe is expected to be sidelined for at least three weeks. This absence means he will certainly miss the La Liga match against Betis in the 18th round on 4/1. The 2018 World Cup winner also faces the possibility of missing the Spanish Super Cup, scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia. Should Real defeat Atletico in the semi-finals on 8/1, they would advance to the final to face either Barca or Bilbao on 11/1.

Mbappe signs autographs for fans during Real Madrid's open training session on 30/12/2025. *Photo: Real Madrid FC*

L'Equipe reported that Mbappe had experienced slight knee pain during recent La Liga matches. "It wasn't a serious issue, initially causing no concern for Real's medical team. But Wednesday's test results led the club to decide it was best for Mbappe to rest", the French daily wrote.

Concerns escalated when Mbappe struggled with acceleration. His demanding schedule, playing all matches this season, is believed to have caused overload on the French forward's knee.

Mbappe has been in excellent form, scoring 18 goals in 18 La Liga matches and 9 goals in 5 Champions League group stage appearances. Before his knee re-injury, he endured a demanding schedule, playing three full 90-minute matches within one week: against Alaves and Sevilla in La Liga, and Talavera de la Reina in the Copa del Rey.

Coach Xabi Alonso disappointed after Real's 0-0 draw with Rayo Vallecano at Vallecas stadium, Madrid, Spain on 9/11/2025. *Photo: AP*

Mbappe's absence is a major setback for Real, particularly as coach Xabi Alonso's future is under scrutiny. According to Spanish newspaper Marca, three consecutive wins (Sevilla 2-0, Alaves 2-1 in La Liga, and Talavera 3-2 in the Copa del Rey) bought the Spanish coach some time. However, Real's management remains unconvinced, as these results are insufficient to dispel doubts, and the team's playing style shows no clear improvement.

Internal assessments suggest that the problem extends beyond individual match results to a more concerning overall picture. The Royal club reportedly lacks identity, fails to inspire confidence, and the professional project under Alonso is believed to be off track.

In this context, the upcoming match against Betis will serve as the next test for the Spanish coach. If they win against Sevilla, the Spanish Super Cup could become a decisive trial, where Real must face Atletico and Barca – opponents where only victories will help Alonso remain in his position until the end of the season.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Marca)