Is Kylian Mbappe Playing Tonight for Real Madrid vs Barcelona?

There is almost nothing left before the Spanish football clásico between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF kicks off, where Los Blancos can close the gap in La Liga, or the Culés can become champions of the competition by celebrating the title against their biggest rival at home, at Spotify Camp Nou.

However, Real Madrid has been hit with more bad news, as recent reports of a locker room altercation between Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni threaten to disrupt team unity ahead of this crucial clash.

Another question is whether Kylian Mbappé will be available for this very important match on the Spanish calendar.

It is worth remembering that the French attacker suffered an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left leg (hamstring) at the end of last month.

Is Kylian Mbappe Playing Tonight for Real Madrid vs Barcelona?

Less than a week ago, Kylian Mbappé was reportedly enjoying a short vacation, according to the press. However, this week the French forward was seen leaving training at Ciudad Deportiva Real Madrid.

Several Spanish media outlets indicate that the former Paris Saint-Germain FC striker trained alongside his teammates.

Leaving the door open to questions about his physical condition and whether he would start the clásico and play the full 90 minutes, or if he would instead come off the bench in the second half so as not to risk him physically.

According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, manager Álvaro Arbeloa has included the Frenchman in the squad list, but Mbappé is not expected to start.

Instead, he will likely begin on the bench, with a possible appearance as a substitute if needed.

Without starting the match, Real Madrid CF loses a crucial player who has played 41 matches, scoring 41 goals and giving six assists. Kylian Mbappé's last match was the draw against Real Betis on April 24.

Copyright 2026 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved.

This story was originally published May 10, 2026 at 9:00 AM.