Mbappe skips training as new Real Madrid coach Arbeloa takes charge
Kylian Mbappe was absent from Real Madrid's training session on Tuesday as new coach Alvaro Arbeloa conducted his first practice. Arbeloa replaced Xabi Alonso on Monday and takes the bench for Wednesday's Copa del Rey match against Albacete, where Mbappe is unlikely to feature.
The French striker returned from a knee sprain as a late substitute in Sunday's Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona. A Real Madrid source told AFP the absence is 'logical' as Mbappe continues recovery work until next Tuesday's Champions League match against his former club Monaco.
Former coach Alonso, who lasted less than eight months, announced his departure on Instagram: 'Things didn't go as I would have liked. Coaching Real Madrid was an honour.' He admitted it was a calculated risk to play Mbappe in the Super Cup.
Real Madrid fans will watch whether Mbappe's recovery timeline affects his availability for crucial Champions League and La Liga fixtures in the coming weeks.