Madrid's Comeback Spark: Mbappe and Bellingham Ready to Lead the CL Clash vs City
7 March 2026
Madrid's Key Stars Poised for a Champions League Comeback
Real Madrid are lining up the return of their star duo Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham to train with the squad ahead of the second leg against Manchester City. The pair are expected to be fit to feature at the Etihad Stadium on March 17, after missing the first leg in the Round of 16.
According to AS, Mbappe and Bellingham are close to resuming daily training at Valdebebas under coach Alvaro Arbeloa.
(Read also) A cryptic remark from Arbeloa that shook Real Madrid's dressing room.
The paper added that the duo have travelled abroad for precise diagnostics and treatment plans, as routine in the club's recovery protocol.
While fans are keen, officials say the steps are standard to ensure a full recovery.
The report notes that Madrid relies on the best treatment plans that players are comfortable with, and that Mbappe and Bellingham's trips abroad are not unusual.
Mbappe's left knee has responded to treatment, and an early return for the first leg is not possible; the realistic target is to appear in the away leg after about three weeks of treatment and monitoring.
Jude Bellingham was initially expected back by late March, but progress on the left hamstring could allow him to play in England against City after his February injury against Rio Vallecano.
A related piece teases new rivalries and hints at a potential new challenge for a Madrid legend.
The report adds that Mbappe's and Bellingham's recovery plans are routine, and that travel abroad is not extraordinary.
Final note: Mbappe's left knee continues to respond, and the aim remains to feature in the away leg three weeks later; for Bellingham, the progression suggests a possible return in England if progress continues.
Punchline 1: If Mbappe and Bellingham are late, Madrid's medical staff will file a new injury report: “Is this a comeback or a plot twist?”
Punchline 2: City fans should stock up on coffee—the ball still finds the net even when the stars are napping.
