Did Mbappe risk too much? Injury setback raises new concerns at Real Madrid

Real Madrid are once again dealing with uncertainty surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s fitness after confirmation that the forward will miss this weekend’s LaLiga clash against Levante. While the immediate concern is domestic competition, there is growing anxiety inside the club that his condition could also rule him out of the upcoming Champions League fixture against Monaco.

According to reports from France, Mbappe’s latest setback is linked to the extraordinary physical demands he placed on himself during the recent Clasico against Barcelona. Sources close to the situation indicate that the striker was not fully fit going into the match but chose to play through the pain. The decision was driven by a sense of responsibility and a desire to support then head coach Xabi Alonso, whose position had come under intense scrutiny.

That gamble now appears to have backfired. The muscle discomfort Mbappe was managing has reportedly worsened, forcing him to step away from competitive action altogether. With Alonso no longer in charge, the player has opted to shift his focus away from short term sacrifices and toward long term physical stability.

Real Madrid’s medical staff are treating the situation with caution. Rather than rushing their star attacker back onto the pitch, they have outlined a tailored recovery program aimed at preventing the injury from developing into a recurring or chronic problem. The club is well aware that an early return could jeopardize Mbappe’s availability for the decisive stages of the season.

From Mbappe’s perspective, the priority is clear. He wants to return only when the risk of relapse has been eliminated. While this approach may leave Real Madrid without their most influential attacking weapon in the short term, it reflects a broader strategy aligned with the club’s transition into a new coaching era.

The timing is far from ideal. With the squad adjusting to tactical changes and preparing for crucial fixtures in Europe, losing Mbappe reduces Real Madrid’s margin for error. His pace, finishing and leadership have been central to their attacking identity, and any prolonged absence will force others to shoulder greater responsibility.

Nevertheless, there is a sense within the club that caution is the only viable option. Mbappe’s long term availability is considered more valuable than a rushed return that could compromise the remainder of the campaign. In that context, patience may prove to be the wiser investment, even if it means navigating a difficult run of matches without their biggest star.