Madrid, Mar 1 (NationPress) The prestigious Real Madrid, a club with an impressive record of fifteen UEFA Champions League victories, faces a significant setback as they prepare for their eagerly awaited round of 16 match against the 2023 champions, Manchester City. Coach Alvaro Arbeloa has revealed that their leading scorer, Kylian Mbappe, is currently uncertain for the game due to ongoing knee issues.

Since before Christmas, Mbappe has been experiencing discomfort in his left knee. The club has attempted to manage his condition by giving him rest in select matches, including the loss to Manchester City in December, the Spanish Super Cup semifinal, and last month's LaLiga victory against Real Sociedad.

In a press briefing before the upcoming La Liga game against Getafe, Arbeloa addressed the increasing worries regarding Mbappe's health. When asked if the forward would be fit to play against Pep Guardiola's squad, he emphasized that the club's foremost concern is Mbappe's full recovery.

"Mbappe and the Champions League? We will approach it on a day-by-day basis. It's essential to assess his feelings. At this moment, it's best to avoid setting any timelines. We aim to understand his condition and will make decisions accordingly," Arbeloa stated during the conference.

"We are clear about what he needs; our priority is for Mbappe to completely recover from his discomfort so he can return at full strength, with complete confidence and assurance once he feels entirely healed and the discomfort is gone," he further clarified the club's position.

Arbeloa dismissed the notion that players may refrain from taking risks this season to preserve their fitness for the upcoming World Cup.

"During my playing days, I gave my all for my club, and then I did the same for my country. I can't comprehend players who conserve their energy, who don't fully commit, and who are focused on anything other than giving their utmost for Real Madrid," remarked the former Spain international.

"That's how it will be in the coming months. There's no better way to prepare for a World Cup than to perform exceptionally for your club," he added.

As they head into the match against Getafe, Madrid trails title contenders FC Barcelona by four points, who recently triumphed over Villarreal CF with a score of 4-1.

Following the Getafe match, Madrid will make their way to Celta Vigo before facing Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu on March 11. They will then take on Elche CF on March 14, followed by the second leg in Manchester on March 17.