HEADLINE: Mbappe vs Haaland showdown

Coach Alvaro Arbeloa confirms Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham have returned to the Real Madrid squad ahead of the match against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League.

Coach Alvaro Arbeloa confirms two stars Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham have returned to the Real Madrid squad ahead of the away match at Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League.

Previously, both Mbappe and Bellingham faced fitness issues and missed some recent matches. However, according to Arbeloa, these two players have recovered positively and can travel with the team to England. Among them, Mbappe is confirmed fit to play, while Bellingham has also returned to training and is nearing a return to action.

Mbappe has just completed his recovery process after a left knee sprain injury that caused him to miss several recent matches for Real Madrid. The French forward underwent nearly three weeks of careful treatment to avoid the risk of surgery. His return is seen as a major boost for the Spanish Royal team's attack, especially as they prepare for the Champions League quarter-final second leg.

Coach Arbeloa highly values Mbappe's role in Real Madrid's tactical system. According to him, this forward provides multiple different attacking options thanks to his intelligent play. The Spanish manager stated he eagerly awaits Mbappe's return to the pitch and his continued goal-scoring for the team.

Additionally, Arbeloa also affirmed that at Real Madrid there is no concept of an "untouchable star". He believes every player must compete for positions based on performance and actual contribution. Names like Federico Valverde, Vinicius, or Aurelien Tchouameni all receive opportunities due to their good displays on the field.

The return of several key players from injury gives Arbeloa more choices for the starting lineup. However, he confirms he will always select the 11 most suitable players for each match as the season enters its decisive phase.

On the other hand, Real Madrid must also prepare thoroughly to neutralize the dangerous scoring threat of Man City's Erling Haaland. In the first leg at the Bernabeu, the Norwegian striker was well contained, and Arbeloa indicates his team can apply a similar approach.