Star Mbappe’s season on ice

French superstar Kylian Mbappe may have to put his season on hold because of a knee problem, with his main goals fast coming into view —a first major trophy with Real Madrid, and asecond World Cup triumph.

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Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe has netted 38 goals in 33 matches this season across all competitions.

(REUTERS)

Little more than 100 days from the start of the 2026 World Cup, the France captain seems to be paying the price for efforts he has made to carry his team this season.

According to several sources contacted by AFP, Mbappe, hampered by damage to the outer ligament of his left knee since late 2025, had to withdraw from Madrid's squad to face Benfica in the Champions League playoff round on Wednesday because he felt “pain that was too persistent” in training.

Mbappeis expected to rest for at least 10 days so he can recover from the issue which has troubled him over the past couple of months.