Arbeloa Confirms Mbappé Absence Against Elche, Awaits Fitness for Manchester Clash

Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa has confirmed that forward Kylian Mbappé will miss Saturday's upcoming La Liga match against Elche. Arbeloa clarified that the player will not be available for the domestic fixture, while also expressing optimism about his potential to travel with the squad to Manchester for the upcoming Champions League encounter.

The Spanish coach linked the final decision regarding Mbappé's travel to England to the development of his physical condition over the coming hours. Arbeloa stated, "He will not be available tomorrow, but we are confident he will be ready for the Manchester match." Arbeloa emphasized that the technical staff will wait until Sunday to make a definitive decision based on the player's daily progress in his rehabilitation program, indicating his strong desire to see Mbappé included in the traveling squad.

During the pre-match press conference, Arbeloa highlighted the importance of the current phase for the Royal club, which is competing for the La Liga title. Arbeloa also said, "I want him to be able to travel to Manchester; we will see what his condition is like tomorrow and on Sunday when we make the final decision." These statements come as Real Madrid seeks to maintain its continental momentum after securing an impressive victory over Manchester City in the European competition recently.

Real Madrid's clash against Elche is scheduled to kick off at 9 PM on Saturday. The capital club aims to overcome absences and secure all three points from this match before fully shifting its focus to the anticipated continental assignment in Manchester.