Mbappé Faces Uncertainty Ahead of Real Madrid’s Match With Real Sociedad
Star forward’s fitness in doubt as Real Madrid prepare for crucial La Liga encounter
By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada 12/2/2026
Real Madrid is heading into a key La Liga match against Real Sociedad with uncertainty surrounding the fitness of star forward Kylian Mbappé. The French attacker did not take part in full training for a second consecutive day due to ongoing knee discomfort, raising questions about his availability for the weekend fixture.
Mbappé, one of Real Madrid’s most influential players this season, has been managing a niggling issue in his left knee that first emerged late last year. Although he has continued to feature in matches, the lingering discomfort has led to cautious handling by the club’s medical staff.
Training Observations Fuel Doubts
During recent training sessions at the club’s Valdebebas facilities, Mbappé was seen working separately from the main group, choosing to complete his recovery work indoors rather than participate in team drills. This pattern has continued for two days, and observers say the final decision on his involvement will likely be made closer to matchday.
With Real Madrid’s match against Real Sociedad scheduled for Saturday evening at the Santiago Bernabéu, fans and pundits are watching closely to see whether Mbappé will be fit enough to start or even make the bench.
Team News Beyond Mbappé
The French forward’s fitness isn’t the only concern for Real Madrid. Raúl Asencio also missed training due to flu-like symptoms, although he is expected to be available for selection in the coming days. At the same time, several other players including Éder Militão, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo continue to work their way back from injuries.
Despite these challenges, Real Madrid remains in a tight title race, currently trailing league leaders by just one point. A strong performance against Real Sociedad would allow them to temporarily overtake their rivals and maintain pressure in the championship chase.
Impact on Real Madrid’s Title Push
Mbappé’s potential absence would represent a significant blow for Real Madrid’s attacking options. The forward has been a consistent source of goals this season, and his presence on the pitch often dictates how opponents set up defensively.
Real Sociedad, meanwhile, enters the match with confidence after recent cup success and a strong unbeaten run under their current manager. Their disciplined approach and ability to absorb pressure make them a competitive opponent on any given weekend.
Managerial Decisions and Timing
Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa and his coaching team will monitor Mbappé’s progress closely over the next 24 hours. If the French star is deemed unfit to play, Arbeloa will have to turn to alternative attacking options and adjust his tactical approach accordingly.
Real Madrid’s depth gives them multiple routes to goal, but supporters and analysts alike agree that Mbappé’s creativity and scoring threat would be difficult to replace in a fixture of this magnitude.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to kickoff continues, all eyes in Madrid will be on team news and late fitness updates. Whether Mbappé is cleared to play or ruled out, the match against Real Sociedad promises to be a defining moment in Real Madrid’s title ambitions.
