Real Madrid will face Manchester City in a crucial Champions League match without Kylian Mbappe in the starting lineup. The match, taking place at the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 8 p.m. GMT, sees the home side without their star forward in the first eleven.
Mbappe's absence from the starting XI comes despite being included in the squad. Concerns arose earlier in the week due to a left knee issue and a reported broken finger sustained during the 2-0 loss to Celta Vigo. He missed training on Tuesday, further fueling speculation about his availability. However, he has seemingly worked with the medical staff to be fit enough for a place in the squad.
Real Madrid's coach, Xabi Alonso, faces immense pressure, with reports suggesting his job is on the line if the team loses against Pep Guardiola's Manchester City. The decision to leave Mbappe out of the starting lineup is a significant one, especially considering the forward's impressive form this season. He has scored 25 goals in all competitions, including nine in the Champions League.
The confirmed Real Madrid starting XI features Thibaut Courtois in goal; a defense of Federico Valverde, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, and Alvaro Carreras. The midfield consists of Aurelien Tchouameni, Dani Ceballos, and Jude Bellingham, while the attack will be led by Rodrygo Goes, Gonzalo Garcia, and Vinicius Junior.
Manchester City will field Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal; a defense comprised of Matheus Nunes, Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and Nico O'Reilly. Their midfield includes Nico Gonzalez, Bernardo Silva, and Phil Foden, with Jérémy Doku and Rayan Cherki supporting Erling Haaland in attack.
Several key players are missing for both sides. Real Madrid has a defensive injury crisis with Éder Militão, Dani Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, David Alaba, Dean Huijsen and Ferland Mendy all sidelined. Eduardo Camavinga is also absent due to an ankle problem. Manchester City will be without John Stones, Rodri, and Mateo Kovacic.
Despite Mbappe not starting, his presence in the squad provides a boost for Real Madrid. His potential to come off the bench and impact the game is a valuable asset for Alonso. The match is crucial for both teams' aspirations in the Champions League.
