Real Madrid's Arbeloa Labels Mbappe Misdiagnosis Reports "Completely False"

Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has strongly refuted claims that Kylian Mbappe's knee injury was initially misdiagnosed by the club's medical staff back in December. He also confirmed that defender Eder Militao is now fit to play after a four-month absence.

Mbappe experienced persistent knee problems for nearly three months, struggling to regain full fitness. His most recent three-week layoff, which included a trip to France for a second medical opinion, marked his longest period out of action. Last week, reports emerged suggesting Real Madrid had scanned the wrong knee initially in December, contributing to the prolonged issue—a claim Mbappe himself had already denied. Arbeloa echoed this denial on Friday.

"What Kylian has stated in recent days is entirely false," Arbeloa asserted. "It’s time to move past his knee problem and concentrate on his performance. He needs to return to the exceptional level he's known for."

Arbeloa Addresses Bellingham's "Unusual" Situation

Following the international break, during which both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid experienced significant injury setbacks, Arbeloa expressed satisfaction that his players returned unharmed.

"All our international players have thankfully returned healthy, which was our primary objective," he noted. "It's been a very productive break for most of them, as they gained valuable playing time. We're fully aware of the demands of tomorrow’s match, as Mallorca is just as desperate for points as we are. We're prepared. Playing away from home immediately after a break is never easy. We have nine 'finals' remaining, and tomorrow is the first."

This included Jude Bellingham, who traveled with the England squad but did not participate. Reports suggested Los Blancos were somewhat annoyed by Thomas Tuchel’s initial decision to call him up.

"His situation was somewhat peculiar because he played a few minutes against Atletico, but Tuchel ultimately decided against using him. They didn't want to take any risks. Jude is intelligent enough to have had some quality training sessions. He’s ready to contribute tomorrow. We need him to regain his match fitness."

Arbeloa added, "I had no specific plans; that's the national team coach’s prerogative, as it is in every country. But there’s no issue with him not having played for England, just as there wouldn't have been if he had. I'm pleased to see him back, and from here, we'll gradually reintegrate him into the squad."

Decision on Vinicius to Be Made "Later"

Speculation in the Spanish capital suggested Arbeloa might rotate his squad for Saturday's trip to face RCD Mallorca at Son Moix, but the Real Madrid manager appeared reluctant to do so.

"My plan is to field the strongest possible team to win the match," he stated. "We face three highly demanding games in six days, leaving no room for error. Tomorrow, I will put out the best team available. Although, as I always say, we're going to need everyone, and that's proving true."

It had been specifically reported that Vinicius Junior might be rested following his extensive international duties.

"He's fine, absolutely fine. Just tired," Arbeloa commented. "It's clear Carletto hasn't given him much rest! (Laughs) But the demands at Real Madrid are very similar to those with Brazil. He's accumulated a lot of minutes, but we'll make a decision on his involvement later."

Eder Militao's Return Confirmed with High Praise

His compatriot, Eder Militao, resumed full training last week, and Arbeloa confirmed his return to the squad after four months sidelined with a hamstring tear, offering high praise for the defender.

"He's coming back," Arbeloa announced. "When he's fully fit, he will undoubtedly be the best center-back in the world. I haven’t had the chance to coach him yet, but he is a sensational defender. His skills and leadership will be an immense help to us. He's a game-changer, and we are absolutely thrilled to have him back."

With Militao now fit, Real Madrid's injury list is reduced to Ferland Mendy, Thibaut Courtois, and Rodrygo Goes. Dani Ceballos and Raul Asencio are also expected to be declared fit soon.