French-Cameroonian Kylian Mbappe out of Real Madrid squad for Benfica decider

Kylian Mbappe has been left out of Real Madrid’s squad for tonight’s decisive Champions League play-off clash against Benfica, as the French forward continues to battle a persistent knee problem.

Madrid host the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu protecting a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first encounter, but they will do so without their leading scorer.

Mbappe has been excluded from the matchday squad due to ongoing discomfort in his left knee, a condition that has troubled him for weeks.

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The 27-year-old has now opted to halt his participation until the issue is fully resolved. The priority is to ensure he is completely fit for the next phase of the Champions League, should Madrid progress, with the potential return pencilled in for the second week of March.

There are also indications that Mbappe has not been entirely satisfied with how the injury has been managed, prompting a more cautious and definitive approach to his recovery.

The decision signals a long-term view from both player and club. Rather than risk aggravating the strain during a demanding run of fixtures, Mbappe is focusing on regaining full fitness ahead of the decisive stretch of the season.

His absence is a significant blow for Alvaro Arbeloa’s side, but Madrid will hope their first-leg cushion proves sufficient as they attempt to secure passage without their talisman.