Real Madrid confirm Mbappé knee sprain as forward begins conservative treatment

• Club publish first official medical update on France international
• Extended rest period with no fixed return date
• Madrid four points off Barcelona ahead of busy run

Real Madrid have confirmed that Kylian Mbappé is suffering from a sprain in his left knee, with tests indicating that conservative treatment is the most appropriate course of action.

Mbappé has been managing discomfort in the knee since December, missing a number of fixtures as the club attempted to control the issue. Last week, head coach Álvaro Arbeloa warned that the forward’s absence would not be resolved in a matter of days.

In a brief statement released on Monday, Madrid confirmed the diagnosis following specialist assessment.

“Following tests carried out on our player Kylian Mbappé by French medical specialists, under the supervision of Real Madrid’s Medical Services, the diagnosis of a sprain in his left knee has been confirmed, as well as the suitability of the conservative treatment he is currently undergoing,” the club said. “His progress will be monitored.”

It is the first time Madrid have issued a formal medical report on the problem, with uncertainty surrounding the injury prompting sustained speculation in the Spanish media.

Arbeloa insisted on Sunday that the club’s position is clear.

“It’s very clear to us: what’s wrong, and what we want now,” he said. “It’s that he recovers totally from the discomfort, so he can come back at 100%, with complete confidence and security, when he feels totally recovered and that discomfort has disappeared.”

Madrid had already rested Mbappé for the Champions League meeting with Manchester City in December, the Spanish Supercopa semi final in January, February’s league win over Real Sociedad, and last week’s playoff second leg against Benfica.

After hosting Getafe CF at the Bernabéu on Monday, Madrid travel to face Celta Vigo on Friday before welcoming City again in the Champions League round of 16 on March 11. They then play Elche CF on March 14 ahead of the return leg in Manchester on March 17.

Madrid sit four points behind league leaders FC Barcelona, who defeated Villarreal CF 4-1 on Saturday, as the title race tightens entering the final stretch.