Overview
- Kylian Mbappé, speaking at a Wednesday press conference in Boston, said the report that Real Madrid examined the wrong knee is “not true” and that he is ready to play for France.
- He said a second opinion in Paris with knee specialist Bertrand Sonnery-Cottet produced the correct diagnosis and a conservative plan that restored him to full fitness for the season run‑in and the 2026 World Cup.
- French broadcaster Daniel Riolo had alleged that Madrid’s staff reviewed images of the healthy knee after the December 7 match against Celta Vigo, which he said delayed proper care and left Mbappé playing three full games with pain.
- Multiple outlets amplified the allegation and tied it to reported moves in Madrid’s medical department, including the return of doctor Niko Mihic, though the club has not given a detailed public explanation.
- The dispute highlights how sparse injury updates for star players can breed conflicting narratives, even as Mbappé now looks to log minutes in France’s U.S. friendlies against Brazil and Colombia.