‘We decided it was best to rest’ – Arbeloa explains why Kylian Mbappe sat out Madrid win

Álvaro Arbeloa has moved to calm speculation surrounding Kylian Mbappé after the forward was ruled out of Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League victory over Benfica, insisting the decision was purely medical rather than disciplinary or personal.

Mbappé’s absence dominated pre match discussion after reports emerged that the France captain had suffered a knee strain shortly before the European playoff encounter.

The situation quickly triggered rumours suggesting dissatisfaction with the club’s medical handling of the injury, raising concerns about a potentially lengthy spell on the sidelines during a critical phase of the season.

Arbeloa, however, stressed that the coaching and medical staff acted cautiously following internal consultations with the player. Speaking after the game, the Madrid coach explained that the priority was long term fitness rather than short term risk.

“We have discussed with him and the doctors and we think it is better to stop, recover and get back to 100%.”

The former defender acknowledged uncertainty over the forward’s return date but indicated the recovery period would extend beyond a brief absence.

“I can’t say how long the absence will last, but it will be more than a few days.”

Arbeloa further revealed that warning signs had appeared earlier in the week, prompting decisive action after training assessments confirmed continued discomfort.

“He had been experiencing discomfort in the previous days. After Tuesday’s training we decided it was best to rest and recover completely.”