Real Madrid vs Man City: Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland had regrets

10.12.25 FT Champions League

Real Madrid

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Manchester City

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On Wednesday night, Erling Haaland expressed his regret over Kylian Mbappé's absence from the pitch at the Santiago Bernabéu during the Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City.

Real Madrid suffered a 1-2 home defeat to Manchester City on matchday six of the Champions League group stage. Kylian Mbappé, who was doubtful due to a muscle issue and a fracture in his left ring finger, remained on the bench and didn’t come on at all. In the Frenchman’s absence, Xabi Alonso put his faith in youngsters Gonzalo García and Endrick, while Rodrygo reignited Madrid’s hopes by scoring the only goal for Los Blancos.

At the final whistle, Erling Haaland spoke to the press. "Did we get a boost from Kylian Mbappé’s absence in their squad? We know about their injuries, we have some as well, but they have a lot. No one wants to see a player get injured, but we expected him to play. I was looking forward to facing Kylian today. When a player like him is missing, you’re not happy about it, because you want to play against the best, but it does give you a slight psychological edge." he admitted.

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.

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