Kylian Mbappé has refuted assertions suggesting his knee injury was diagnosed incorrectly, contrasting reports that Real Madrid's medical team evaluated the wrong knee while seeking to address the issue.
A journalist from France’s RMC Sport, followed by various Spanish media outlets, reported on Tuesday that the club overlooked a partial ligament tear in his left knee in December, mistakenly scanning his healthy right knee.
Prior to the injury being officially recognized, Mbappé participated in three matches, with Madrid releasing a medical report on December 31 that identified a knee sprain. An update was provided this month after he visited Paris for a second evaluation, which indicated he would be out of action for over three weeks.
“The assertion that [Madrid] examined the incorrect knee is false,” Mbappé stated on Wednesday while representing France ahead of a friendly against Brazil. “I may carry some indirect accountability for the misunderstanding, as a lack of communication about my condition and progress leaves room for speculation, prompting many to jump to conclusions.
“Throughout my time with Real Madrid, I have had clear communication, whether during my rehabilitation in Madrid or while in Paris, where I was assisted by the team doctor, a physiotherapist, and the club's fitness coach as we worked collaboratively. There are no issues regarding that.
“It’s a crucial phase in the season. The team has been performing well in my absence. I wasn’t available when I got injured, and it was thought that I was the only option available, but that wasn’t the case. The team’s success is what matters.”
Mbappé first incurred the injury during a match against Celta Vigo on December 7 but continued to play in three games before the conclusion of 2025 against Alavés, Talavera, and Sevilla, prior to the confirmation of the sprain.
Following limited playtime in the Supercopa de España, he returned to the field in various matches during January and February. Real Madrid later announced that advice from French medical experts affirmed their choice for a “conservative treatment” method.
After a rest period, Mbappé returned as a substitute in last week’s Champions League second leg match against Manchester City and also played in the weekend derby against Atlético Madrid.
“I have never seen myself as someone who dwells on regrets, either personally or as a player,” Mbappé shared. “My focus is on the present and the near future. I feel great right now, particularly with both my knees, which is significant for me. This is partly due to my club’s excellent management of my physical wellbeing.
“I am thrilled to be here, ready, and completely fit. I’m prepared to participate [against Brazil] and start if required.”
Earlier this week, the captain of the French team also informed the Spanish publication AS that “certain inaccuracies have been reported” regarding the knee injury that has limited his recent participation for Real Madrid.
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