Real Madrid fans can stop holding their breath. Kylian Mbappé trained with the group on Wednesday, three days before Madrid host Villarreal at the Bernabéu, and every sign says the French superstar will be ready for Saturday. After a nervy week of knee scares and Mourinho headlines, it is the news Madrid needed.
How the Injury Happened
The scare began on September 25, when Mbappé scored the only goal in France’s 1-0 win over Türkiye in Zinedine Zidane’s first match as coach, then went off in the second half in pain. Tests revealed a hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee. That rang alarm bells because it was the same knee he sprained last season. He missed the rest of France’s window, including the 4-1 win over Belgium.
The Good News from Valdebebas
Mbappé returned to Madrid on Monday and trained alone for two days. On Wednesday he rejoined the group, putting his boots on, smiling and completing the whole session, according to Marca. Journalist Pablo Gallego says he finished in perfect condition. Real Madrid’s fitness coach Antonio Pintus has also said the rehabilitation is going smoothly and that the knee looks good.
Will Mourinho Start Him?
That is the big question. Gallego’s report suggests Mbappé is set to start, but Marca says Madrid are taking a cautious approach. Mourinho could decide to keep him fresh for the trip to Roma in the Champions League next week. There is even a report that Mourinho is considering benching both Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior against Villarreal. Madrid are fourth in La Liga on 15 points, six behind leaders Barcelona, so they cannot afford a slip.
Why Madrid Need Him Now
Mbappé is the form player. He has scored in five of his eight appearances this season, including the goal that beat Inter 2-1 in Madrid’s Champions League opener. Madrid lost 2-1 to Atlético in their last game before the break, and October is brutal: Villarreal, then Roma, Sevilla, RB Leipzig and the first Clásico at Barcelona on October 25.
The Noise Around Mbappé
Off the pitch, the headlines have been loud. Reports linked Mbappé with trips to Paris and Switzerland during the break, and Spanish media say tension persists in the dressing room five months into Mourinho’s reign. None of this is confirmed, and Real Madrid sources reportedly expect no hostile reception at the Bernabéu on Saturday. A goal would quiet everything.
What Happens Next?
Mourinho’s Friday press conference should reveal more. Until then, the picture is clear: he is training, he is smiling, and he is almost certainly back.
