Real Madrid endured yet another frustrating defeat in the Champions League on Wednesday night, as they found it challenging to challenge Arsenal effectively over the course of two legs. Compounding their difficulties, the team may soon be without their leading goal scorer, Kylian Mbappe, who sustained an injury and was forced to exit the match with just 18 minutes remaining.
At just 26 years old, Mbappe has been a pivotal player in the team’s attacking lineup this season. Despite not reaching the astonishing heights that many fans and analysts anticipated, he remains their top scorer, amassing 32 goals in 49 appearances, along with contributing four assists. This consistent performance underscores his critical role in the squad, and his potential absence could have significant repercussions for the team’s aspirations.
According to early reports from Diario AS, Mbappe’s injury is suspected to be a twisted ankle. Despite the diagnosis, Real Madrid is maintaining an optimistic outlook regarding his condition, labeling the injury as ‘light.’ This assessment raises hopes that he could still be fit enough to participate in the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, set to unfold in Seville in just nine days. However, the medical team will need additional time to fully evaluate the injury as they await the swelling to subside. Moreover, Mbappe is scheduled to undergo further examinations to gain clarity on the extent and seriousness of the damage.
Furthermore, before the injury, Mbappe was already facing a suspension for Real Madrid’s critical home match against Athletic Club this weekend due to a red card he received in a previous match against Alaves. Fortunately, he was able to dodge a more extensive ban and will only sit out that single game. If he recuperates adequately, he could potentially be available for their match against Getafe the following Wednesday. Nevertheless, manager Carlo Ancelotti may opt to err on the side of caution and refrain from exposing him to further risk too soon, prioritizing his health and fitness for more significant upcoming clashes.
This season, Real Madrid has managed to cope without Mbappe on four separate occasions: twice due to injuries and twice as a tactical decision when he was rested. The outcomes in La Liga during his absence have been a mixed bag; notably, they drew 1-1 with city rivals Atletico Madrid and found themselves embroiled in a thrilling 3-3 contest against Rayo Vallecano. On a brighter note, they did secure victories against Leganes (3-2) and Real Sociedad (1-0) in the Copa del Rey during these times.
As they look ahead, Ancelotti is certainly hoping that Mbappe will return to the pitch in peak fitness, especially for the vital encounter against Barcelona on April 26th. His explosive talent and goal-scoring prowess will be crucial for Real Madrid if they aim to reverse their recent fortunes and push forward in pursuit of trophies this season. Given the stakes of the upcoming matches, the team’s adaptability and responses in Mbappe’s absence could define their path moving forward.
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