Madrid’s training ground welcomed Kylian Mbappé back onto the grass on Monday, only 10 days after the France forward left an international match against Turkey with a left-knee problem. Real Madrid now expect him to be available for Saturday’s La Liga visit of Villarreal.
Mbappé combined conditioning exercises with ball work in the session, signalling that his recovery has followed the most optimistic timetable. The forward had been substituted in the 59th minute of France’s win over Turkey on 25 September after reporting discomfort.
Quick facts
- Mbappé suffered a tendon issue involving the posterior capsule of his left knee.
- He returned to Real Madrid training on the 10th day after the injury.
- France played two Nations League matches against Belgium and one against Italy without him.
- The French side recorded two victories and one draw during his absence.
- Real Madrid’s next match is against Villarreal on Saturday.
Medical examinations identified hyperextension in the rear part of the left knee capsule, producing the tendon injury. Minor cases can require between 10 and 14 days of rehabilitation, while more significant damage may keep a player out for two to six weeks.
France released Mbappé from its squad after the diagnosis, ruling him out of the Nations League fixtures against Belgium and Italy. Les Bleus navigated that sequence without defeat, taking two wins and a draw.
The spell away from the field also brought attention beyond the treatment room. Within days of leaving the national-team camp, Mbappé was seen visiting a nightclub with his partner.
A social-media video of the forward riding a bicycle prompted further scrutiny. Mourinho had previously warned players against activities carrying an avoidable risk of injury, with cycling becoming part of the discussion around Mbappé’s rehabilitation period.
Madrid enter a demanding October programme, beginning with Villarreal this weekend. Two Champions League matches follow alongside domestic meetings with Sevilla and Barcelona, giving Mbappé an early opportunity to rejoin the side during a crucial stretch.
His fitness could carry particular weight as the Spanish giants seek to end their run without silverware. For now, the return to the training pitch is the first firm step towards that crowded month.
