Real Madrid have confirmed that star forward Kylian Mbappé suffered a muscle injury during Friday’s La Liga draw with Real Betis, raising concerns over his availability for the upcoming El Clasico against FC Barcelona on May 10.
The French striker asked to be substituted late in the match after experiencing discomfort in his left leg during his 100th appearance for the Spanish giants.
In an official statement released on Monday, Real Madrid CF confirmed that medical examinations revealed a lesion in the semitendinosus muscle of Mbappe’s left leg.
The club added that the forward’s recovery would depend on how the injury evolves over the coming days.
Reports in Spain indicate that the 27-year-old is expected to miss Madrid’s next league fixture against Espanyol but could still recover in time for the decisive clash with Barcelona.
Concern first emerged at the Benito Villamarin when Mbappe signaled to the bench that he could not continue.
Although initial assessments reportedly suggested the injury was not severe, further tests were carried out at the club’s training complex to determine the full extent of the problem.
After being substituted, the striker immediately headed to the dressing room for treatment.
Speaking after the match, Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa admitted there was uncertainty surrounding the situation.
“I have no idea. He felt some discomfort. We’ll see how he evolves over the next few days,” the coach told reporters following the draw with Betis.
Mbappe’s condition is now a major concern ahead of Madrid’s crucial La Liga showdown with Barcelona at Spotify Camp Nou.
Although the defending champions trail their rivals in the title race, the Clasico remains one of the most important fixtures of the season.
With roughly two weeks until the encounter, Madrid’s medical staff are racing against time to ensure the club’s leading scorer is fit enough to feature against Hansi Flick’s side.
The injury is also being closely monitored by the French national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mbappe, who has scored more than 40 goals this season, remains central to France’s hopes of winning another World Cup title.
With fellow Madrid attacker Rodrygo already struggling with long-term fitness problems, the Spanish club could be forced to rely heavily on squad rotation until their star forward returns.
