Carlo Ancelotti provides Kylian Mbappe fitness update ahead of Real Madrid's UCL clash against Lille
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has provided positive news about the fitness of Kylian Mbappe ahead of his side's UEFA Champions League clash against Lille on Wednesday, October 2. The World Cup winner picked up an injury during his side's 3-2 win over Alaves in La Liga and while initially expected to miss multiple weeks due to the setback, the forward has made a rapid recovery.
Speaking to the press ahead of his side's away clash in the Champions League, the Italian tactician answered questions about the star's fitness, saying (via GOAL):
“Mbappe has recovered well, very quickly, Only yesterday he trained individually. He didn’t stop for long and he hasn’t lost his condition. Today (Tuesday) he will train the whole training session. We will make the most appropriate decision today, bearing in mind that we are not going to take any risks."
The legendary manager added:
“He has had an overload. They’re talking about (a) grade I (hamstring injury). In the old days, it was an overload. With the new technology, he’s fine. He’s here to play. We’re not going to take any risks. Obviously, if there is no risk, he will play from the first minute.”
Kylian Mbappe has been impressive for Real Madrid so far this season, bagging seven goals and one assist from his first 783 minutes spread across nine games for Los Blancos.
Kylian Mbappe's brother Ethan laments missing clash against Real Madrid
Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe was set to face his brother in the UCL with Real Madrid taking on Lille. However, Ethan Mbappe picked up an injury during his side's 3-0 win over La Havre and will miss the encounter.
The midfielder took to social media to mourn the missed opportunity to face his older brother in the match. He wrote on Instagram:
"I injured myself during the match, and I’m going to be absent for several weeks,It’s a difficult moment for me because it is the first time this has happened since I started playing football. But sadness passes and I am determined to return stronger. With the support of my family, my team-mates and all the medical staff, I am going to put all my energy into my rehabilitation to return at a better level."
“Even if I will not be on the pitch for some time, I will continue to support my team and work hard behind the scenes. My dream of facing my brother in the Champions League is distant, but it has not disappeared.”
Kylian Mbappe and Ethan both left PSG for free this summer to join their continental and domestic rivals.
Kylian Mbappe (25) was the star man at the Paris-based club, bagging 256 goals and 108 assists for the side in 308 appearances. Ethan Mbappe (17) came through the team's youth ranks and eventually played 85 minutes for PSG spread across five games.