Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe has sustained a thigh injury just days before the highly anticipated La Liga derby against Atletico Madrid, the club confirmed on Wednesday.
The French superstar was forced off during Real’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Alaves on Tuesday, appearing to suffer discomfort in his left thigh. Spanish media outlets suggest the forward could be sidelined for up to three weeks.
“Following tests carried out today by Real Madrid’s medical team, Mbappe has been diagnosed with an injury to the biceps femoris in his left leg,” the club said in an official statement.
Mbappe, who had netted a spectacular goal in the match, has scored five goals in seven La Liga appearances this season.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti downplayed concerns after the game, saying, “He’s fine, a little overloaded. He asked for the substitution to avoid further problems.”
Los Blancos, who are just one point behind league leaders Barcelona, will travel to the Metropolitano Stadium on Sunday to face their city rivals. Real have gone 39 La Liga games unbeaten, with their last defeat coming at Atletico’s hands nearly a year ago.
Mbappe is also expected to miss next week’s Champions League clash against Lille and could potentially sit out France’s Nations League fixtures in October against Israel and Belgium.
The 25-year-old joined Real Madrid this summer after the expiration of his Paris Saint-Germain contract, fulfilling his long-cherished dream of playing for the Spanish giants. After a slow start, Mbappe has found form with seven goals in nine appearances across all competitions, including a goal in the UEFA Super Cup win over Atalanta.
