Real Madrid News
Real Madrid superstar misses training ahead of Real Sociedad clash
Real Madrid’s preparations for the upcoming clash against Real Sociedad have hit a minor hurdle following the second training session of the week.
The most notable development from Valdebebas is that Kylian Mbappe did not take to the pitch to train with the rest of his teammates, reports AS.
Mbappe misses training
The report adds that the Frenchman remained indoors, focusing on gym-based sessions. The forward is carrying out specific strengthening and physical conditioning work.
While his absence from the grass might raise eyebrows among the fans, it appears to be a calculated effort to manage his workload and ensure he is in peak physical condition for the final stretch of the season.
The report does not mention any particular injury scare for the former PSG superstar, who is undisputedly the club’s best player this season with 38 goals in all competitions.
Keeping that in mind, his availability is considered paramount, especially given that long-term absentees Eder Militao, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo are still continuing their respective rehabilitation programs.
Mbappe’s presence this weekend will be important, particularly in the context of the title race. Should Real Madrid defeat Real Sociedad, they will temporarily leapfrog Barcelona into first place in the standings.
They would maintain that position until Monday, when Hansi Flick’s side travels to face Girona.
On a bright note, though, Franco Mastantuono has trained normally today. Despite leaving Mestalla with a knock and spending Tuesday with the physiotherapists, his participation against Real Sociedad is no longer in doubt.
It won’t be surprising to see Mbappe feature either, although given his training schedule heading into this game, it will be interesting to see if Arbeloa opts to start the Frenchman on the bench.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
