Real Madrid suffer a massive setback ahead of El Clasico as Kylian Mbappe is ruled out with injury following a failed late fitness test before the title-defining clash against Barcelona.
France's Kylian Mbappe (PC: IANS)
Mbappe, who has been struggling with a muscle injury in his left leg, was unable to complete Saturday’s training session at Valdebebas and did not recover in time to travel with the squad for the high-stakes encounter.
Los Blancos confirmed their squad for the much-anticipated fixture on social media, with the French forward notably missing from the travelling group. Madrid’s medical and coaching staff ultimately decided against taking any risks with the 27-year-old, considering the importance of the remaining fixtures in the season.
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Mbappe’s absence comes as a massive concern for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, especially given his impressive record against Barcelona. The French striker has consistently delivered in Clasico fixtures and even scored a hat-trick in last season’s meeting at Montjuic despite Madrid ending up on the losing side.
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The forward has enjoyed a sensational debut season in Spain, scoring 41 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions despite dealing with multiple short-term injury setbacks during the campaign.
Real Madrid head into the crucial clash severely depleted, with Federico Valverde, Rodrygo, Eder Militao, Arda Guler, Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy also unavailable for selection.
Meanwhile, Barcelona have a chance to move closer to securing the La Liga title if they avoid defeat against their arch-rivals. Madrid, however, can still keep the title race alive with a victory and reduce the gap at the top with only a few matches remaining in the season.
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