Kylian Mbappé Declared Fit for Real Madrid's Crucial Champions League Clash Against Manchester City; Bellingham Ruled Out

Manchester. Real Madrid star striker Kylian Mbappé has been declared fit for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 against Manchester City. The 27-year-old French forward Mbappé had been sidelined since early March due to a knee injury.

This marks his return to the starting lineup for the first time since the match against Osasuna on February 21. Coach Alvaro Arbeloa confirmed that Mbappé is fully ready to play, stating that his presence will be very important for the team.

On the other hand, Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham, although traveling with the squad to Manchester, will not feature on the field. The 22-year-old Bellingham, who sustained a hamstring injury during the game against Rayo Vallecano on February 1, was initially expected to recover significantly within four weeks. However, his injury proved deeper than anticipated, causing a delay in his return.

Coach Arbeloa clarified that Bellingham has only come to Manchester to boost team morale and support his teammates. Although he participated in a portion of the training, he will not be available for the encounter against Manchester City.

Bellingham's absence also raises questions about his participation in England's squad for the friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan scheduled for the end of March. Coach Arbeloa expressed confidence that even without taking the field, Bellingham's presence will inject positive energy into the team.

Real Madrid arrives in Manchester carrying a commanding 3-0 victory from the first leg. Real established a strong hold in the match held last Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabéu after Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick in the first half.

In that match, Manchester City was saved from a larger defeat because goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma saved a penalty taken by Vinicius Junior. Now, City will attempt a strong comeback at home, while Real aims to secure its place in the quarterfinals by defending its lead.