Mbappé returns as Real Madrid prepare for Bayern clash

MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 13: Kylian Mbappe player of Real Madrid is training with teammates Raul Asencio and Gonzalo Garcia at Ciudad Real Madrid on April 13, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Helios de la Rubia/Real Madrid via Getty Images) | Real Madrid via Getty Images

Real Madrid held their latest training session at Valdebebas on Monday morning as they finalized preparations for their Champions League quarter-final second leg against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.

Álvaro Arbeloa’s side are entering a defining stretch of the season, and the session brought encouraging news on the availability front—most notably the return of Kylian Mbappé to full team training.

The French forward had missed Sunday’s session as a precaution after taking a knock in the win over Girona, where he required stitches above his eye following an accidental elbow. However, Mbappé trained normally with the squad and is expected to be available for Wednesday’s clash. He was seen wearing a protective bandage, but the injury is not considered serious enough to require a mask.

Ferland Mendy also rejoined the group, boosting Madrid’s defensive options ahead of a difficult trip to Germany. His return could be particularly important with Bayern’s wide threats looming, as Madrid look to manage key attacking outlets in the second leg.

The session itself followed a familiar structure, beginning with activation drills and rondos before progressing into possession work and tactical exercises. Training concluded with a full-pitch match, as the coaching staff fine-tuned preparations for the high-stakes encounter.

There were, however, a few absentees. Thibaut Courtois and Rodrygo continue their respective recovery programs and did not train with the group. Aurélien Tchouaméni worked indoors, although his absence is expected given he is suspended for the second leg due to yellow card accumulation.

Madrid will now travel to Munich, where they will hold their final pre-match training session at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday evening. With Mbappé back in the fold and Mendy available again, Arbeloa heads into the clash with a near-complete squad as Real Madrid aim to take the final step toward the Champions League semi-finals.