Kylian Mbappe, captain of France national football team, was in Paris on Monday for medical treatment on a knee injury, although surgery is not being considered for the Real Madrid forward at this time.
A statement from the player’s entourage confirmed that Mbappe travelled to the French capital accompanied by members of Real Madrid’s medical staff for further evaluation.
According to the statement, the striker is undergoing additional tests on his knee in agreement with the club in order to properly monitor his condition and prepare for his return to action. It also clarified that no surgical procedure is currently planned.
Mbappe has been dealing with an injury to the external ligament of his left knee since late 2025. The problem forced him to miss last week’s UEFA Champions League play-off second-leg match against Benfica after experiencing persistent pain during training sessions.
Sources close to the player indicated that there is no disagreement between Real Madrid and the French national team regarding the striker’s treatment plan, as both parties are keen on ensuring he returns to full fitness ahead of major upcoming fixtures.
Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa explained that the decision for the forward to take time off was mutually agreed upon by the player, the coaching staff and medical personnel. He added that the priority is for Mbappe to recover fully before returning to the pitch.
The Spanish club remains uncertain about the length of his absence, though the coach admitted the recovery period may extend beyond a few days.
It is still unclear whether Mbappe, who has scored 38 goals in 33 appearances for Real Madrid this season, will be available for the Champions League round-of-16 clash against Manchester City. The first leg of the tie is scheduled for March 11, with the return leg set for March 17.
Meanwhile, France are expected to play two international friendlies in the United States later this month — against Brazil national football team in Boston on March 26 and Colombia national football team in Washington, D.C. three days later.
France will begin their campaign at the upcoming FIFA World Cup on June 16 with a group-stage match against Senegal national football team.
