Kylian Mbappe is set to be a substitute after suffering a possible hamstring injury during Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Real Betis in La Liga on Friday, adding fresh concerns ahead of France’s World Cup build-up. With the France striker having had recurring problems with his left knee this season, the latest setback comes at a particularly unfortunate time for both the player and his country.
Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa confirmed that Mbappe felt discomfort in his left thigh muscle and was substituted at the end of the match. “I have no idea (what’s wrong with Mbappe),” Arbeloa said after the match. “He felt some discomfort. We’ll see how he develops in the next few days.”
Initial assessments point to a possible hamstring strain, with further medical tests required to determine the severity and recovery timeline. Reports from the Spanish media suggest that Mbappe has suffered a “muscle overload” in his left hamstring, a problem which has forced him to ask for a substitution. The injury occurred without any contact, which is often considered a worrisome sign of muscle problems.
Mbappe is also expected to play a key role for France in the upcoming World Cup. The finalists of the last two editions will begin their campaign on June 16 against Senegal. Sports journalist Fabrizio Romano gives an update on Kylian Mbappe’s injury (screenshot from X)
IS THE LA LIGA TITLE RACE OVER?
Mbappe’s injury further adds to Real Madrid’s frustration after they dropped points against Real Betis in Cartuja, leaving them eight points behind league leaders FC Barcelona, who also have a game in hand that could extend their lead further.
Vinicius Jnior put Madrid ahead in the 17th minute, but a 94th-minute equalizer from Hector Bellerin ensured the game ended in a draw.
What was expected to be a key opportunity to put pressure on Barcelona instead turned into a setback for Madrid, especially with key players already sidelined. Barcelona themselves have also dealt with injuries, with Lamine Yamal ruled out for the season and Raphinha recently missing several weeks due to injury.
With just five games remaining, including the looming El Clasico at the revamped Camp Nou, Madrid’s title hopes now look increasingly difficult.
Their growing injury list also includes Eder Militao, Thibaut Courtois, Arda Guler and Aurlien Tchouameni, who are expected to miss the next league game against Espanyol on May 3.
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Published on:
25 Apr 2026 12:48 IST
