Real Madrid`s forward, Kylian Mbappe, was shown a straight red card in the 38th minute of their La Liga game against Alaves, managed by Carlo Ancelotti. Shortly after Alaves took the lead with a goal from Eduardo Camavinga, Mbappe`s forceful challenge on Alaves` Antonio Blanco prompted VAR intervention. Consequently, the referee decided to send Mbappe off the field.
Beyond the French star`s underwhelming performance, Real Madrid supporters are concerned about the repercussions of this red card. It could lead to Mbappe missing the highly anticipated Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona on April 26.
According to assistant coach Davide Ancelotti, `Kylian is not a violent player. He apologized and acknowledges his mistake.` Davide, son of head coach Carlo Ancelotti, stated to ESPN, `It was clearly a red-card worthy tackle, and he is facing the consequences.`
He further added, `The numerous minor fouls against him triggered his reaction. It was not justifiable, and I am not excusing it, but that is what occurred.`
The possibility of Mbappe missing the final hinges on the referee`s match report. If the report classifies Mbappe`s tackle as a `serious offense,` it could result in a suspension spanning multiple games. A ban of four or more games would exclude him from the final. Spanish FA regulations stipulate that only suspensions exceeding four games apply to cup competitions, including the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona in Seville on April 26.
Opta reports that Mbappe is only the second Real Madrid striker in the 21st century to receive a red card in the first half of a La Liga game, following Ruud van Nistelrooy in 2008 against Atletico de Madrid. Despite a successful debut season at Real Madrid, marked by 32 goals in 47 appearances across all competitions, equaling Cristiano Ronaldo`s debut season record, this red card against Alaves represents a low point. It could potentially have significant consequences for the upcoming final.
CBS Sports will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Dominic Ashworth