Real Madrid Confirm Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham Return Ahead of Manchester City Clash

Real Madrid have received a major boost ahead of the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie against Manchester City, with Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham both set to return to the squad.

On Monday morning, coach Álvaro Arbeloa named his matchday squad for the trip to Manchester, with the key inclusions being Mbappé and Bellingham. Both players have been sidelined in recent weeks due to injury, but they are now poised to feature at the Etihad Stadium as Real Madrid look to protect their three-goal advantage from the first leg.

Mbappé has been absent for the last three weeks with a knee issue, which has recently subsided, while Bellingham has been out since the start of February following a hamstring injury. The English midfielder is also expected to make his return to action in his home country.

Defender Updates: Returns and Absences

Real Madrid have further positive news in defence. Álvaro Carreras has recovered from his own injury and has been included in the squad travelling to Manchester. The left-back is expected to start in place of Fran García, with Ferland Mendy still sidelined until after the international break. In addition, David Alaba returns after a two-week absence.

However, the squad news is not entirely positive. Raúl Asencio has failed to recover in time and will miss the trip. The defender had already been unavailable for the weekend fixture against Elche and continues to experience discomfort, prompting Arbeloa to leave him out of the travelling party.

The return of Mbappé, Bellingham, and Carreras provides Real Madrid with a significant lift ahead of Tuesday evening’s clash. With these key players back in the fold, the La Liga giants are now even stronger favourites to see out the tie at the Etihad Stadium, though they will be aware that they cannot afford any complacency.