Kylian Mbappe injury: Real Madrid set clear plan with El Clasico in focus

Real Madrid are looking beyond Kylian Mbappe’s immediate return and towards the fixture that matters most at the end of October.

According to SPORT, the club’s priority is to have Mbappe fully fit for the Clasico against Barcelona on October 25, rather than rushing him back for every match before then.

The France international is currently recovering from a knee problem sustained during the international break. 

Real Madrid’s medical report confirmed hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee, with an expected recovery period of around 10 to 14 days.

Mbappe’s absence from Valdebebas causes reaction

Mbappe was back in the spotlight recently after being seen entering a nightclub in Paris with his partner, Ester Exposito.

Mbappe had Real Madrid’s permission to skip training. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images)

The images triggered criticism from some Real Madrid fans, particularly because the forward has not been completing his recovery at Valdebebas in the same way as some of his teammates have done.

However, the club has no apparent concerns over the situation because as reported before, the player has the club’s permission, meaning there is no indication that Mbappe has breached any instructions regarding his recovery.

That leaves the focus on when he should return to competitive action.

Real Madrid will not risk Mbappe before Barcelona clash

On paper, Mbappe could be available for the league meeting with Villarreal on October 10, as his expected recovery timeline would put him in contention for that fixture.

However, that does not necessarily mean Mourinho will use him.

Real Madrid want Mbappe to be fully fit for El Clasico. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images)

Real Madrid’s planning is being influenced by the Clasico, with the club keen to ensure Mbappe reaches the October 25 meeting at the Spotify Camp Nou in full condition. 

His workload could therefore be managed carefully in the weeks leading up to the game.

That may mean starting the Villarreal match on the bench or potentially being left out altogether if there is any concern over his fitness.

The Clasico already carries significant importance for Real Madrid, as Barcelona currently sit six points ahead of them, meaning the meeting in Catalonia could have a major impact on the early La Liga picture.