The most significant question hanging over tonight’s UEFA Champions League clash has been answered: Kylian Mbappé is back. Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa confirmed during Monday’s pre-match press conference that the 27-year-old forward has been declared fit for the second leg of the Round of 16 against Manchester City. UEFA Champions League 2025-26 Round of 16: (March 17) Today's Football Matches and IST Kick-Off Times.

Mbappé, who has netted 38 goals in 33 appearances this season, has been sidelined since 21 February after suffering a left knee sprain during a La Liga fixture against Osasuna. His absence from the first leg in Madrid was notable, though Federico Valverde’s hat-trick ensured the Spanish giants arrived in Manchester with a commanding 3-0 advantage.

Medical Clearance and Potential Role

While Mbappé has travelled with the squad and participated in full training at the Etihad on Monday evening, reports from the Madrid camp suggest he may not be risked in the starting XI. Given the three-goal cushion, medical staff are reportedly favouring a "bench role" to start, allowing the Frenchman to be introduced if the game’s momentum shifts in City's favour.

"Kylian is ready to play," Arbeloa told reporters. "I am eager to have him on the field, to enjoy him and his goals. He is a very intelligent player and his presence will be very important for us tonight."

Jude Bellingham Present but Unavailable

While the news regarding Mbappé is positive, the situation for Jude Bellingham is more complex. The English midfielder has travelled with the squad to Manchester to support his teammates, but Arbeloa has officially ruled him out of the match.

Bellingham is still recovering from a deep hamstring injury sustained on 1 February. Although he took part in light individual drills during the open training session, he remains unavailable for selection. "Bellingham wanted to be with the team," Arbeloa explained. "He is one of our leaders, and it is important for the group to have him around during the team talk and at half-time."

Task for Manchester City

Pep Guardiola’s side faces what he has described as a "massive task." City must score at least three goals to force extra time against a Madrid side that has conceded very little in recent weeks. The return of Mbappé, even as a substitute, adds a terrifying counter-attacking dimension that City must account for as they push forward in search of goals.

Historically, Mbappé has been a thorn in Manchester City’s side, having scored seven goals against them in European competition, more than any other opponent he has faced in the Champions League.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 17, 2026 05:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).