Real Madrid have received a major boost ahead of their crucial Copa del Rey final clash against arch-rivals Barcelona, with reports confirming that Kylian Mbappe is expected to be fit and included in the matchday squad.
The French forward had sustained an ankle injury during Real Madrid’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Arsenal, causing him to miss their 1-0 La Liga victory over Getafe earlier this week.
Spanish outlet Marca has reported that Mbappe has already returned to training, and the club’s medical staff are confident he will be ready in time for the final. The showdown between Barcelona and Real Madrid is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, at Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville, and it could potentially be the only chance for Los Blancos to secure silverware this season.
Mbappe’s return is timely, as Real Madrid have struggled to make a significant impact in El Clasico matchups this season. In both previous meetings, Barcelona managed to shut down Mbappe’s influence, recording dominant wins with scorelines of 4-0 in La Liga and 5-2 in the Supercopa de Espana. The French international will be keen to reverse that trend and deliver a performance worthy of his reputation.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, who is reportedly nearing the end of his tenure at the club, will be hoping to sign off with a major domestic trophy. The Copa del Rey final could mark the Italian’s final match in charge, adding extra significance to Saturday’s contest. With Mbappe likely to return, Ancelotti gains a key asset in his bid to outwit Xavi’s Barcelona.
Despite their rocky season, Real Madrid will be aiming to end on a high and avoid going trophyless. The inclusion of Mbappe will be a welcome sight for Madridistas, who have seen flashes of brilliance from the forward but have also witnessed the challenges he’s faced adapting to El Clasico pressure. His presence could prove decisive if Real Madrid are to lift the trophy.
Kick-off for the much-anticipated final is set for 21:00 (local time) on Saturday. All eyes will be on La Cartuja as two of Spain’s biggest football institutions clash once again, with silverware and pride on the line. Whether Mbappe can rise to the occasion and break his El Clasico drought remains to be seen—but his return alone will fuel Real Madrid’s confidence.
