Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that star striker Kylian Mbappe is on course to return from injury in time for the Copa del Rey final against arch-rivals Barcelona this Saturday. The French international had been sidelined with an ankle issue sustained during Madrid’s Champions League exit to Arsenal.
Mbappe missed Madrid’s recent 1-0 La Liga win over Athletic Bilbao and will also sit out Wednesday’s clash with Getafe. However, Ancelotti revealed that both Mbappe and left-back Ferland Mendy are expected to resume training and be available for the weekend’s high-stakes El Clasico.
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Despite being shown at the Bernabeu during the Bilbao game, Mbappe was met with mixed reactions from the fans, including some whistles. Ancelotti acknowledged the striker’s frustration at not being able to contribute, stating, “He’s doing everything he can to be ready for Saturday.”
With Mbappe absent, Madrid shifted to a more defensive formation, sacrificing attacking flair for midfield solidity. Ancelotti admitted the team has struggled to maintain balance this season and emphasized the need to find stability in the final stretch, where titles are on the line.