Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé has sustained a thigh injury just days before this weekend’s La Liga derby against Atletico Madrid, the club announced on Wednesday.
The French superstar was substituted during Tuesday’s 3-2 victory over Alavés, appearing to show signs of discomfort. Spanish media reports suggest that Mbappé is expected to be sidelined for approximately three weeks.
“Following tests conducted today by Real Madrid’s medical staff, Kylian Mbappé has been diagnosed with an injury to the biceps femoris in his left leg,” stated the Spanish champions in their announcement.
Mbappé scored a stunning goal in the thrilling match at the Santiago Bernabéu against Alavés and has netted five goals in seven league appearances this season.
When asked about Mbappé’s condition after the game, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said, “He’s fine, he’s fine, just a little overloaded. He asked me to substitute him to avoid any issues.”
Real Madrid, sitting one point behind leaders Barcelona before the Catalans face Getafe on Wednesday, will visit the Metropolitano Stadium on Sunday to take on their rivals Atletico.
Los Blancos have gone 39 La Liga games without a defeat since losing to Atletico a year ago.
The striker is also likely to miss the Champions League match against Lille next week, as well as October’s Nations League fixtures against Israel and Belgium with the French national team.
Mbappé joined Real Madrid this summer after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired, fulfilling a long-held ambition.
The 25-year-old has recently found his form in Spain after taking a few games to adjust, tallying seven goals in nine appearances for Real Madrid across all competitions, including a goal in the UEFA Super Cup victory over Atalanta in August and during his Champions League debut.
