Real Madrid confirms Mbappé's knee injury, French star ruled out of Thursday's Super Cup Madrid derby

Mbappe Ruled Out of Real Madrid's Spanish Super Cup Semi-Final Against Atletico Madrid; Los Blancos Reappoint Former Doctor to Strengthen Medical Support.

On January 9th, the 2026 Spanish Super Cup semi-final will feature the Madrid Derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, but Los Blancos have suffered a major setback - star forward Kylian Mbappe has been confirmed to miss the match due to a left knee sprain. The injury was first reported on December 31st and had been causing discomfort to the player for several weeks; he has already missed the team's first match of the year against Betis, watching from the stands.

While the exact duration of Mbappe's absence remains undetermined, sources indicate that he is unlikely to be available for this crucial derby, and his availability for a potential final against Barcelona or Athletic Club on January 12th (if Real Madrid advances) is still uncertain. As Real Madrid's most decisive attacking core this season, Mbappe has contributed 29 goals and 5 assists since August. His absence undoubtedly casts a heavy shadow over Los Blancos' quest for the Spanish Super Cup title and forces head coach Xabi Alonso to restructure the forward line.

Amid growing injury concerns within the squad, Real Madrid has quickly taken countermeasures by recalling Dr. Niko Mihic to serve as the head of the Health and Performance Department at the Valdebebas training ground, assuming the role of medical supervisor. Dr. Mihic previously served as Real Madrid's team doctor during the tenures of Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti, and has remained closely connected with the club and president Florentino Perez as a consultant after leaving the position. He was present at the team's training session on Saturday. This move highlights Real Madrid's high attention to the player health security system at the sensitive juncture of Mbappe's injury, aiming to stabilize the team's season performance by strengthening medical management.

#Mbappe Injury #Real Madrid #Madrid Derby #Spanish Super Cup #Mihic Return #2026 Spanish Super Cup