Kylian Mbappe (foto: Getty Images)
Kylian Mbappé was shown his first red card in a Real Madrid shirt against Alavés. Will he miss the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona? Here’s what Spanish media are reporting.
Kylian Mbappé has received the first red card of his Real Madrid career—and only the fourth of his professional journey—after a rough challenge on Antonio Blanco in the league clash against Alavés. The straight red has raised immediate concerns over a potential suspension that could rule him out of the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
The sending-off, which came late in the match, was quickly accepted as fair—even by Davide Ancelotti, the assistant and son of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
“I haven’t spoken to Kylian yet, but he apologised and knows what he did. Kylian isn’t a violent player, but this red card was deserved,” said Ancelotti Jr. after the game. “There were a lot of minor fouls committed against him throughout the match, and that led to his reaction—which, of course, isn’t justified.”
Will Mbappé miss the final against Barcelona?
According to Spanish reports, Mbappé is expected to receive a two-match suspension, which would see him miss La Liga fixtures against Athletic Club and Getafe. Unless the disciplinary committee issues a three-game ban, he should still be eligible for the Copa del Rey final on April 26 at La Cartuja in Seville.
The general consensus in Spanish media is that a third match ban is unlikely, as there was no violent conduct beyond the late challenge. That said, the final decision will be made by the Spanish Football Federation’s disciplinary committee in the coming days.
Mbappé will face Arsenal in the Champions League
Importantly for Madrid fans, the red card will not affect Mbappé’s availability for the upcoming Champions League second leg against Arsenal. With Real chasing a 3-0 deficit, they’ll be counting on their French star to help script another magical European comeback.