Mbappé absent from training as Arbeloa takes charge of Real Madrid

Striker Kylian Mbappe was absent as Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa took charge of his first training session on Tuesday after replacing Xabi Alonso at the helm of the Spanish giants.

Arbeloa was appointed on Monday and his first match is on Wednesday against Albacete in the Copa del Rey, in which French striker Mbappe is unlikely to play.

Mbappe made his comeback from a knee sprain on Sunday as a late substitute in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, ​​but is likely to continue working on his recovery until next Tuesday’s Champions League match against his former club Monaco.

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This is what a Real Madrid source says AFP it was “logical” that Mbappé was absent from training, given his knee problem.

Former coach Alonso had admitted it was a calculated risk to include Madrid’s top scorer in the match against Barca in Saudi Arabia.

Alonso, replaced after less than eight months at the helm, said on social media he would leave the club after giving his best.

“It didn’t go the way I wanted,” the Basque coach wrote on Instagram on Tuesday.

«Coaching Real Madrid has been an honor and a responsibility. I am grateful to the club, the players and especially the fans for their trust and support.»

“I leave with respect, gratitude and pride that I did the best I could.”

Published on January 13, 2026