Real Madrid have confirmed that Kylian Mbappé will be out of action for several weeks after sustaining a knee sprain, dealing a setback to the club’s bid to close the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona.
In a statement released on Wednesday, December 31, Real Madrid said medical tests carried out on the forward revealed a sprain to his left knee. “After the tests carried out today on our player Kylian Mbappé by Real Madrid’s medical services, he was diagnosed with a sprain in his left knee. Awaiting evolution,” the club said.
While Madrid did not give a specific return date, a source close to the France international told AFP that Mbappé is expected to be sidelined for at least three weeks.
The injury leaves the 27-year-old a major doubt for Sunday’s home league clash against Real Betis, which will be Madrid’s first match after the winter break. Carlo Ancelotti’s side currently trail Barcelona by four points in the title race.
Mbappé could also miss the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against city rivals Atlético Madrid in Saudi Arabia on January 8, as well as a league fixture against Levante and a Champions League tie against his former club, AS Monaco.
The setback comes during what has been an outstanding year for the forward. In 2025, Mbappé equalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s club record of 59 goals in a calendar year and has been pivotal for Real Madrid, easing pressure on head coach Xabi Alonso.