Kylian Mbappe is a doubt for Real Madrid's crucial El Clasico clash against Barcelona on 10 May after picking up a hamstring injury in Friday's 1-1 La Liga draw with Real Betis. The France captain was substituted in the 81st minute at the Santiago Bernabeu as Real Madrid slipped 11 points behind league leaders Barcelona with five games remaining.
Injury Blow for Real Madrid
Medical tests revealed Mbappe has suffered an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left leg, with Real Madrid stating they are “awaiting progress” on his recovery. The 27-year-old had previously missed nearly a month earlier this season due to a knee problem, raising concerns over his fitness ahead of the season’s most important fixture.
The setback comes at a dire time for the Spanish giants, who were eliminated from the Champions League by Bayern Munich last week and now face the possibility of finishing the campaign without a single trophy.
Key Contributor This Season
Despite the injury setbacks, Mbappe has been a key figure since joining from Paris St-Germain in 2024. He has scored 24 goals in 28 La Liga appearances and added 15 goals in 11 Champions League matches this season. His pace and goal threat have made him central to Real’s attacking plans.
With a trip to Espanyol on Sunday before the El Clasico, Real Madrid’s management will be monitoring Mbappe’s condition closely. His availability could have a decisive impact on both the title race and the team’s morale.
World Cup on the Horizon
The World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico kicks off on 11 June, adding further urgency to Mbappe’s recovery timeline. Remaining fit for France will be a priority, but the El Clasico looms large in the immediate future.