Real Madrid: Alvaro Arbeloa ends the debate over Kylian Mbappé

Without Kylian Mbappé for several weeks, Real Madrid still impressed in their Champions League round of 16 first leg against Manchester City (3-0). So, is Real Madrid actually better without the French striker? Alvaro Arbeloa quickly shut down that notion.

The Spanish coach addressed the topic this Monday during his pre-match press conference. "It's hard to imagine a team being more competitive without the best player in the world," responded the Madrid coach. "But it's a good sign for the squad. I'm happy that people are speaking so highly of the team even in the absence of the best player in the world. (…) Kylian brings us something different, but he's also a player who links up play very well, finds space, and is extremely intelligent. Having him on the pitch is a real asset—he's crucial to the way we play.", he explained.

Facing the press, Arbeloa did not reveal whether Mbappé would be in the starting eleven tonight for the Champions League round of 16 second leg against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.