Actual reason why Real Madrid forward could be forced to miss the Real Sociedad clash – report

Madrid, Spain – Real Madrid may have to do without Kylian Mbappé when they host Real Sociedad on Sunday after the France star’s left-knee discomfort resurfaced, club sources have confirmed to Mundo Deportivo.

The problem first emerged in December 2025 when Mbappé pushed his physical limits during a congested spell of fixtures. Two months later the joint has still not settled, prompting the club’s medical staff to recommend a short period of rest rather than risk a more serious setback.

While the issue is not classified as a significant injury, the forward’s availability for the weekend’s La Liga encounter is now rated as doubtful. The club’s hierarchy are weighing up a cautious approach that would keep Mbappé out of the domestic match but leave him fully primed for the Champions League play-off first leg against Benfica on Wednesday, 18 February.

Real Madrid’s failure to secure direct passage into the round of 16 has added two extra European ties to an already demanding schedule, increasing the importance of having their marquee attacker at peak fitness. Coaching staff and the player himself are expected to make a definitive call within the next 48 hours, yet the prevailing mood inside Valdebebas is to prioritise continental progress.

The potential absence of their leading goal-scorer represents a calculated gamble. With the league table delicately poised, dropping points against La Real could have ramifications in an increasingly tight title race. Internally there is acknowledgement that preserving Mbappé’s long-term health is essential to sustaining a dual assault on silverware, but the decision is tinged with anxiety over the immediate domestic consequences.

As the season enters a pivotal phase, Madrid find themselves balancing short-term sacrifice against the broader objective of securing at least one major trophy. The next few days will shape both their Champions League fate and the narrative of a campaign already defined by dramatic swings.