Manchester City receives positive news from Kylian Mbappe ahead of the Champions League showdown.

Manchester City has just received encouraging information ahead of the major clash with Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, as Kylian Mbappe is confirmed to miss the first leg due to injury.

According to sources from Spain revealed to Tribuna, the French forward will not recover in time to participate in the first leg between Real Madrid and Manchester City on March 11. This is considered a significant loss for the Spanish Royal club, as Mbappe is one of their most crucial attacking stars this season.

Mbappe previously had to travel to Paris for treatment of a left knee sprain injury. After several days of treatment in France, the 27-year-old striker returned to Madrid to continue his recovery process at the Valdebebas training center. Although his condition is progressing positively, Real Madrid's coaching staff has decided not to risk using the player in the upcoming match.

Coach Alvaro Arbeloa recently provided a fairly optimistic update on Mbappe's situation. The Spanish strategist stated that the French forward is "improving day by day" and the club's medical team is closely monitoring his recovery process. Real Madrid's goal is to help Mbappe reach his best condition so he can return for the second leg. Champions League scheduled to take place on March 17.

Not only Mbappe, Real Madrid also faces a severe squad crisis ahead of the major clash with Manchester City. According to Diario AS, the Royal club will be missing at least six first-team players in the first leg.

Jude Bellingham has not fully recovered from a left leg semitendinosus muscle tear injury suffered earlier in February. Although his recovery is progressing, the English midfielder will still not be available for the first leg.

Additionally, Eder Militao is still treating a hamstring injury, while David Alaba has not reached optimal physical condition due to calf issues. Dani Ceballos is also sidelined due to a torn soleus muscle in his right leg.

Notably, Rodrygo will be absent long-term after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament tear and a meniscus tear in his right knee, and is expected to undergo surgery soon. Furthermore, defender Alvaro Carreras is also a major question mark after encountering issues in a recent training session.

With numerous key players unavailable, Real Madrid will certainly face many difficulties when visiting Manchester City in the first leg. Round of 16 Champions League. This is considered a significant advantage for Coach Pep Guardiola's team ahead of the most anticipated knockout stage encounter.