REAL MADRID have received a major boost ahead of their crucial European fixture against Manchester City. Star players Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham have returned to the squad for the second leg of their round-of-16 match.
Both players missed recent games due to injuries, but they are now fit enough to travel with the team for the important encounter in England.
Mbappe Recovers from Knee Injury
Mbappe suffered a knee sprain in early March. The French forward has not played since Real Madrid’s league match against CA Osasuna on 21 February.
Medical staff monitored his recovery closely, and the forward has now returned to training. His availability gives Real Madrid extra attacking power for the upcoming match.
Bellingham Returns After Hamstring Problem
Bellingham also spent several weeks on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring injury during a league game against Rayo Vallecano. The midfielder left the pitch early in that match and appeared emotional as he walked off.
Initial reports suggested he would miss around four weeks. However, doctors later confirmed the injury required a longer recovery period.
His absence raised concerns about whether he would be fit in time for England’s upcoming friendly matches against Uruguay national football team and Japan national football team later this month.
Now, his return offers a significant boost to Real Madrid’s midfield strength.
Real Madrid Hold Strong Advantage
Real Madrid enter the second leg with a comfortable lead after a dominant first-leg performance in the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Midfielder Federico Valverde delivered an outstanding display by scoring a first-half hat-trick, helping his team secure a 3-0 victory.
The scoreline could have been even higher. Real Madrid had another major opportunity when winger Vinícius Júnior stepped up for a penalty early in the second half. However, Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma produced an impressive save to deny him.
Big Night Expected in Manchester
With Mbappe and Bellingham back in the squad, Real Madrid head to England with renewed confidence. Their three-goal advantage puts them in a strong position, but Manchester City will still aim to produce a dramatic comeback at home.
Fans can expect an intense match as two of Europe’s top teams battle for a place in the next stage of the UEFA Champions League.
