Mbappé's injury confirmed: Will he be ready for the Clásico in the Copa del Rey final?

Finally, the extent of Kylian Mbappé's injury has been confirmed. The 26-year-old French forward could not finish the match against Arsenal (1-2) in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals in the middle of the week, being replaced by Brahim Díaz in the 75th minute due to a physical setback. Until now, the severity of his injury was unknown.

Now, according to various sources, after undergoing the relevant medical tests, it has been confirmed that Mbappé suffered a slight sprain in his right ankle. Although an exact recovery time has not yet been determined, initial forecasts indicate that Real Madrid will not be able to count on their main goalscorer in the upcoming matches.

Will Mbappé be available for the Clásico in the Copa del Rey final?

In principle, 'Donatello' is not expected to be available for the match against Athletic Club (20/04), as, even if he were in full physical condition, he could not play due to the suspension he must serve for his expulsion against Deportivo Alavés (0-1), after a dangerous tackle on Antonio Blanco. He would also not be available for the next league match against Getafe CF, a midweek match that will be played next Wednesday, April 23rd.

He is not yet ruled out for the match next Saturday, April 26th, corresponding to the Clásico of the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona. In that match, Real Madrid cannot afford to lose their main goalscorer of the season so far (32 goals in 49 matches).

Although Mbappé's recovery could be quick, it is not ruled out that he could arrive at the match 'between cotton wool'. A sprain, however slight, usually requires a recovery of between one and two weeks. However, the option of Kylian playing with injections is also being considered, in case it is absolutely necessary to have his presence in the match against the 'culés'.

What tactical alternatives could Ancelotti manage if Mbappé does not make it to the match against Barça?

If 'The Turtle' finally fails to recover in time, Carlo Ancelotti would be forced to look for tactical alternatives. A viable option could be to line up Endrick as a centre forward, especially after his good performances in the 24-25 Copa del Rey (he is one of the 'Pichichis' of this edition of the tournament along with Ferran Torres and Julián Álvarez with five goals). Another option would be to move Rodrygo Goes to the centre, as a false nine, and place Brahim Díaz as a right winger.

Although 'Carletto' has not shown too much willingness to bet on young players in key moments, the situation could force him to make adjustments in his line-up, especially if the presence of Mbappé is not guaranteed, will Kylian recover in time? Only time will tell.