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Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has delivered a pivotal update on Kylian Mbappe’s fitness, confirming the star striker will be available for Saturday’s Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. Mbappe, who missed Sunday’s 1-0 win over Athletic Club due to suspension, has been nursing an ankle injury sustained during the Champions League quarter-final clash against Arsenal. While initial scans downplayed the severity of the knock, fears lingered after he was sidelined for the midweek clash against Getafe.
Ancelotti, however, has silenced doubts, declaring Mbappe’s readiness for El Clásico—but not without addressing the Bernabéu’s mixed reception toward their marquee signing.
Carlo Ancelotti’s deadline for Kylian Mbappe’s return
Ancelotti’s blunt assessment of Mbappe’s status cut through the speculation. “They’re not ready for tomorrow, but they can make it to Saturday,” the manager stated, referring to Mbappe and left-back Ferland Mendy, who is also recovering from a separate setback. The French forward’s absence against Getafe was precautionary, with Madrid prioritizing his fitness for the high-stakes final.
However, Kylian Mbappe’s road to recovery hasn’t been without turbulence. During the Athletic Club match, sections of the Bernabéu crowd audibly whistled when his image flashed on the stadium screens—a reaction Carlo Ancelotti brushed off.
“I’ve read it, but I haven’t heard it,” he deflected. “He’s doing everything he can to be there on Saturday.”
The moment underscored the relentless pressure Mbappe faces at Madrid, where even legends like Cristiano Ronaldo weathered similar scrutiny despite historic goal tallies.
From slow start to redemption arc
Mbappe’s debut season in Madrid has been a rollercoaster. After a sluggish start adapting to La Liga’s demands, the 26-year-old faced fierce criticism for a reckless red card against Alavés earlier this month—a moment that tested his composure. Yet, his scoring prowess remains undeniable. Mirroring Ronaldo’s early Madrid numbers, Kylian Mbappe’s 32 goals across competitions have kept Los Blancos in contention for a domestic and European double.
Ancelotti’s tactics have also evolved to accommodate his star. The manager admitted to experimenting with Jude Bellingham in a more advanced role, a shift that has disrupted last season’s title-winning balance.
“We’ve changed our game plan a bit, and it’s hard for us to find rhythm,” Carlo Ancelotti conceded. “But if we do, we can win.”
The final test: Bernabeu’s ultimatum
Saturday’s final isn’t just about silverware—it’s Mbappe’s chance to cement his place in Madrid’s pantheon. The striker’s ability to deliver under pressure will define his legacy, especially after the Bernabéu’s frosty reception. Ancelotti’s faith in him is unwavering, but the Italian tactician knows trophies are the ultimate currency.
As Madrid gears up for Barcelona, all eyes will be on Kylian Mbappe. Will he rise to the occasion, or will the weight of expectation prove too heavy? For Carlo Ancelotti, the answer is clear: “He’s ready.”
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