Kylian Mbappé has received a worrying update after being forced off during Real Madrid’s 1–1 draw against Real Betis on Friday.
The French national team now faces a serious concern just weeks before the World Cup, as the Real Madrid striker has reportedly been ruled out for the remainder of the season.
Kylian Mbappe faces World Cup Concern
According to reports from Josep Pedrerol, presenter of El Chiringuito de Jugones, Mbappé may have played his final match of the season.
“I tell you, I think he will no longer play for Real Madrid this season, because of his injury” he said.
While early medical assessments suggested the damage might not be as severe as initially feared, these new reports raise fresh concerns about his fitness ahead of the World Cup.
The club also confirmed the injury in an official statement.
“Following tests carried out today on our player Kylian Mbappé by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a semitendinosus muscle injury in his left leg. His recovery will be monitored,” it read.
The 27-year-old has been a crucial part of the Madrid squad this season, scoring 41 goals and providing 6 assists in 41 appearances across all competitions. Currently the club’s top scorer, he has maintained an elite scoring rate of roughly one goal per game.
Kylian Mbappe celebrates his first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between France and Ukraine.Photo by Xavier Laine/Getty Images
His international form has been similarly impressive, with 5 goals and 2 assists in 4 appearances for France during the 2025–26 season.
He also recently reached a historic milestone by surpassing Thierry Henry’s record of 51 goals to become France’s second all-time top goalscorer.
While there is no official confirmation yet regarding his status for France or the World Cup, this is a major setback for Real Madrid. With crucial games remaining, it serves as a reminder of how demanding the final stretch of the season can be.
With Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by 11 points and only five games remaining, their title hopes are nearly over. The timing of the injury is especially unfortunate, coming just before El Clásico on May 10.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the 2026 World Cup section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.