UCL: Kylian Mbappe returns to full Real Madrid training ahead of Manchester City second-leg clash

French forward Kylian Mbappé has returned to group training with Real Madrid CF after being sidelined since late February with a sprained left knee.

Just two days before the team’s second leg clash against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League round of 16, the attacker, who has roots in Cameroon, looks set for his return to action.

Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa confirmed during a press conference on Saturday that the French striker had resumed normal training with the squad.

Mbappé also appeared in several photos and videos released by the club, marking his first full participation in a team session since missing the Champions League encounter against SL Benfica on February 25.

The French international remains the top scorer for the Madrid side this season, having netted 38 goals in 33 appearances across all competitions. Although he could be included in the squad for the trip to Manchester, there is no certainty he will start the match, especially with Real Madrid holding a comfortable 3–0 advantage from the first leg.

Spanish media reports suggest Arbeloa may limit Mbappé’s involvement to a few minutes in order to gradually restore his match fitness ahead of the upcoming derby against Atlético Madrid in La Liga next Sunday.

If his recovery continues without setbacks, Mbappé is also expected to join the next international camp with the France national football team between March 23 and 30. During that window, the side managed by Didier Deschamps is scheduled to play friendly matches against Brazil and Colombia in the United States, less than three months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.