Mbappé suffers left knee hyperextension, out 10-12 days

Kylian Mbappé is suffering from a hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee and will be unavailable for between 10 and 12 days, Real Madrid confirmed in an official statement on Saturday. The French striker left the pitch prematurely during the match against Turkey, just minutes after opening the score.

The exact nature of the injury initially caused confusion. Zinédine Zidane mentioned a simple hyperextension in his first comments, while the French Football Federation communicated about a tendon injury — a diagnosis that, in the worst-case scenario, could have sidelined Mbappé for two to three months. The Madrid club held its breath, especially since the player’s left knee is a sensitive area: the previous season, recurring problems in the same spot had already kept him out of decisive Ligue des Champions matches against Benfica and Manchester City.

The Spanish club’s statement ultimately dispelled the fears: “Following the examinations carried out today by Real Madrid’s medical service on our player Kylian Mbappé, a hyperextension of the posterior capsule of the left knee has been diagnosed. His condition will be closely monitored.” According to newspaper AS, relief was immense in Madrid’s offices, where the worst was expected.

For the French national team, however, the absence remains significant. Mbappé will miss the double fixture against Belgium as well as the match against Italy during this international break.

For Real Madrid, the prospect of a return in time for the league resumption against Villarreal reassures José Mourinho, who must play five matches in fifteen days — Villarreal, AS Roma, Sevilla, Leipzig and the Clásico against FC Barcelona. Getting his striker back at 100% before this marathon proves crucial for the Portuguese coach.