The uncertainty surrounding Kylian Mbappe ahead of the season-defining El Clasico is continuing to grow, with Real Madrid still unable to confirm whether their biggest star will be fit enough to face FC Barcelona.
According to reports from Melchor Ruiz, what was initially expected to be a decisive day in Mbappe’s recovery process has now been delayed after the French forward’s scheduled MRI examination was postponed until tomorrow.
The medical assessment was meant to provide clarity regarding the condition of the muscular issue that has kept him sidelined in recent days, but Madrid will now have to wait longer before making a final decision.
The delay has only intensified the tension around the player’s availability for one of the most important matches of the campaign.
What’s the story?
According to the latest reports coming out of Valdebebas, Mbappe did not participate in full team training today.
Instead, the forward focused on individual recovery work inside the gym and pool as Real Madrid’s medical staff continued monitoring his condition carefully.
The current plan is for Mbappe to partially reintegrate with the squad during tomorrow’s training session, assuming the results of the medical tests are positive enough to allow him to increase his workload.
Real Madrid are not losing faith in Mbappe’s return. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
For now, though, his situation remains completely open.
No optimism lost
As per the journalist, there is still optimism that the French superstar could recover in time for the clash at Spotify Camp Nou.
The club understands the enormous importance of having Mbappe available, especially in a match that could potentially be delayed because it could delay Barcelona’s title dream.
Barcelona need only a draw to win the Spanish championship, mean there is absolutely no margin of error for Real Madrid.
That situation makes Mbappe’s recovery one of the biggest stories surrounding the build-up to the Clasico.
The uncertainty is also creating a tactical headache behind the scenes.
For now, everything depends on tomorrow’s medical tests. Only after the MRI and further evaluations will the coaching staff decide whether Mbappe can return to group training and realistically feature in Sunday’s showdown.