Real Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa has expressed strong confidence in Kylian Mbappé ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes derby against Atlético Madrid.
Speaking on Saturday, Arbeloa revealed that Mbappé is fully fit and ready to make an impact after returning from a knee sprain. The French superstar made a brief appearance in Madrid’s midweek clash against Manchester City, showing flashes of his trademark pace and sharpness.
“I already told you that the day Mbappé came back would be when he was at 100 percent,” Arbeloa said. “From what we saw in Manchester, every action showed he’s in great shape.”
Mbappé, who has been in sensational form this season with 38 goals in 34 appearances, is expected to play a key role as Madrid host Atlético at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
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Arbeloa also confirmed the return of Jude Bellingham, who has been sidelined since early February with a hamstring injury. The England international is back in the squad and could feature in the derby.
“I think he will play. He’s available and I’m really looking forward to seeing him out on the pitch,” Arbeloa added, praising Bellingham’s intelligence and awareness.
Both Mbappé and Bellingham have also been called up for international duty—Mbappé by France for upcoming matches against Brazil and Colombia, and Bellingham by England under Thomas Tuchel.
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However, Madrid will be without first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who is sidelined with a thigh injury. Arbeloa remains confident in backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin to step up.
“The best goalkeeper in history gets injured, and we have another outstanding goalkeeper ready to show how good he is,” he said.
With key players returning and confidence high, Real Madrid will be aiming to secure a crucial victory in one of La Liga’s most anticipated fixtures.
