Real Madrid faces significant challenges ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash against Manchester City. Key players Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham are both unlikely to participate due to ongoing injury issues. Additionally, Alvaro Carreras is set to miss the match due to a calf injury.
Injuries Impacting Real Madrid
Carreras’s injury adds to a growing list of absentees for Real Madrid. The club recently confirmed that Rodrygo has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, effectively ruling him out for the remainder of the 2025/26 season. This injury affects not only his club commitments but also his chances of competing in the upcoming World Cup scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Coaching Adjustments
Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa is exploring alternative strategies to cope with the loss of Mbappe and Bellingham. Younger players like Gonzalo Garcia and Brahim Diaz have been getting more minutes, while 18-year-old Thiago Pitarch is stepping up in the midfield.
Condition of Kylian Mbappe
Mbappe currently undergoes treatment on his left knee. He has missed the last three matches, and despite being seen engaged in off-the-ball training, there is no definitive timeline for his return. Arbeloa expressed that it is critical for Mbappe to return only when he is completely fit. “We want him to return at 100%,” he stated.
Harry Kane’s Fitness Concerns at Bayern Munich
Transitioning to Bayern Munich, Harry Kane is also facing fitness concerns ahead of their UEFA match against Atalanta. He missed his first match of the season due to a calf injury last Friday against Borussia Monchengladbach.
Coach’s Cautious Optimism
Head coach Vincent Kompany mentioned that they would “wait and see” regarding Kane’s availability for the upcoming match. He indicated that Kane had a productive training session but remains unconfirmed for selection. Kane has been a standout performer this season, netting 45 goals and providing five assists across 37 appearances.
Newcastle’s Tino Livramento Update
In preparations for their clash against Barcelona, Newcastle United’s head coach Eddie Howe discussed Tino Livramento’s fitness. Having not played since early January, Livramento recently returned to action but remains a fitness concern.
Squad Considerations
Howe mentioned that Livramento had limited training sessions, making his readiness to start a potential risk. Despite his uncertain status, Howe recognized Livramento’s importance to the squad. He expressed hope in getting the team selection right for the high-stakes encounter.
- Real Madrid Injuries:
- Kylian Mbappe – Left knee issues, doubtful for City match.
- Jude Bellingham – Unavailable due to similar fitness issues.
- Alvaro Carreras – Out due to calf injury.
- Rodrygo – ACL injury, season over.
- Bayern Munich:
- Harry Kane – Missed match due to calf injury, status unclear for Atalanta.
- Newcastle United:
- Tino Livramento – Limited training, doubtful for Barcelona clash.
