Real Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa provided a cautiously optimistic update on Kylian Mbappé’s availability for Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League knockout playoff first leg against Benfica at the Estádio da Luz, confirming the French forward is with the traveling squad but stopping short of guaranteeing his participation.
Addressing the media ahead of the high-stakes rematch — following Benfica’s surprising 4-2 win over Madrid in January that forced the playoff — Arbeloa was asked directly about Mbappé, who has been managing left-knee discomfort for much of the season.
“He is here with us. You will see tomorrow if he plays or no,” Arbeloa said, keeping his options open as the team prepares for the crucial tie under José Mourinho’s Benfica.
Mbappé, Real Madrid’s leading goalscorer this campaign, was rested as a precaution during the recent 4-1 LaLiga win over Real Sociedad to ensure readiness for this European fixture. The club has opted against surgery, instead implementing a conservative treatment plan to manage the issue.
Arbeloa emphasized the importance of not taking risks with his star player: “He is doing very well… We have decided not to take risks so that he will be ready to start the match on Tuesday,” he noted in related comments.
The encounter carries extra weight as Madrid seek redemption and progression in the Champions League, with Mbappé’s potential return a major boost for Los Blancos’ attack. The first leg kicks off on February 17, 2026, with the return fixture to follow.