Real Madrid Without Star Forward in Crucial Clash
Kylian Mbappé has been ruled out of Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey semifinal first leg against Real Sociedad. The French forward, who recently underwent a tooth extraction, was absent from the club’s official squad list for the match on Wednesday.
Despite earlier assurances from coach Carlo Ancelotti that Mbappé would be traveling with the team, the decision was made to leave him out, ensuring he has adequate time to recover. His absence comes as a surprise, considering his stellar performances in 2025, where he has already netted 14 goals, including a stunning hat trick against Manchester City in the Champions League.
Key Players Missing from Madrid Squad
Real Madrid will also be without key players like Thibaut Courtois and Federico Valverde. Courtois was not expected to feature, as he typically does not play in Copa del Rey fixtures. Meanwhile, Valverde is being given additional rest after featuring in the recent clash against Manchester City despite not being at full fitness.
With a packed schedule ahead, Madrid is being cautious with player fitness. The team faces a tough LaLiga encounter against Real Betis this weekend, followed by a crucial Champions League round-of-16 match against Atlético Madrid.
Why Mbappé’s Absence Is a Big Blow
Mbappé’s Form in 2025
Mbappé has been in scintillating form this year, delivering top performances across all competitions. His current tally of 14 goals in 2025 makes him one of Real Madrid’s most important players. Losing him for such a crucial match is undoubtedly a setback.
Impact on Real Madrid’s Attack
With Mbappé absent, Ancelotti will have to rely on alternative attacking options. The likes of Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and Brahim Díaz will need to step up and fill the void left by the star forward.
Copa del Rey Ambitions
Real Madrid is determined to reclaim the Copa del Rey title and will be looking to gain an advantage in the first leg against Real Sociedad. The absence of Mbappé adds pressure on the squad to deliver in his absence.
Real Madrid’s Upcoming Fixtures
Madrid faces a demanding schedule in the coming weeks:
- Copa del Rey Semifinal (1st Leg) vs. Real Sociedad – Wednesday
- LaLiga Fixture vs. Real Betis – Saturday
- Champions League Round of 16 vs. Atlético Madrid – Next Week
With such a hectic lineup, Ancelotti will need to carefully manage his squad to maintain peak performance across all competitions.
Possible Lineup Without Mbappé
With Mbappé out, Real Madrid might opt for the following lineup:
Goalkeeper: Andriy Lunin
Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy
Midfielders: Eduardo Camavinga, Toni Kroos, Jude Bellingham
Forwards: Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, Joselu
This formation allows Madrid to retain its attacking threat while ensuring stability in midfield.
Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey Aspirations
Real Madrid aims to reach the Copa del Rey final, where they could potentially face either Atlético Madrid or Barcelona, who played out an intense 4-4 draw in their semifinal first leg. A win against Real Sociedad would put Madrid in a strong position heading into the second leg.
FAQs
1. Why is Kylian Mbappé missing the Copa del Rey match?
Mbappé is recovering from a recent tooth extraction and has been left out of the squad for precautionary reasons.
2. Who will replace Mbappé in the starting lineup?
Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo are likely to take on more attacking responsibilities in Mbappé’s absence.
3. What other players are missing from Real Madrid’s squad?
Thibaut Courtois and Federico Valverde are also absent, with Courtois typically not featuring in Copa del Rey games and Valverde being rested.
4. When is Real Madrid’s next Champions League match?
Madrid will face Atlético Madrid in the round of 16 next week.
5. Who could Madrid face in the Copa del Rey final?
If Madrid advances, they could face either Atlético Madrid or Barcelona in the final.
