Kylian Mbappe is back! Massive boost for Real Madrid as France superstar returns to training before Man City clash

While his presence is a massive psychological lift, Mbappe did not complete a full session with the main group, instead carrying out continuous running drills alongside fitness coach Sebastien Devillaz, as per Tribuna. Despite the optimistic sights on the training field, the report suggests that his participation on Wednesday, for the first-leg of the showdown with City, remains hugely unlikely as he continues to follow a personalised recovery plan.

While the focus remains on the returning superstars, Los Blancos have been hit by a defensive setback involving full-back Alvaro Carreras. The official medical report released by the club confirmed that "after the tests carried out on our player Alvaro Carreras by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a muscle injury in the calf of his right leg." Given the update, and the fact Madrid face City in just two days, it seems almost certain he will also miss the first leg of the tie.

It isn't all bad news for the Los Blancos hierarchy, as two key defensive pillars have returned to boost the squad depth. Antonio Rudiger was spotted back in full training and is expected to feature at the back against City. Furthermore, Eduardo Camavinga has successfully navigated a difficult period involving a persistent tooth infection to rejoin the main group, putting himself in contention for a starting berth in midfield or at left-back.

Real Madrid are moving into the final stages of their preparation with just 17 first-team players fully available for selection. The medical staff are monitoring Mbappe's progress by the hour, but the club maintains a cautious stance, with reports suggesting they will not risk the forward unless he is close to 100 per cent fitness, prioritising his long-term availability for the second leg and the summer's World Cup. The pressure is now on Arbeloa to navigate these selection hurdles against a City side that remains one of the favorites for the trophy.