Real Madrid will be without star forward Kylian Mbappé for their Copa del Rey quarter-final against Leganés after the Frenchman suffered a bruised calf in their recent La Liga defeat to Espanyol. Manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Mbappé’s absence, intensifying concerns over Madrid’s growing injury crisis ahead of key fixtures.
Mbappé’s injury stems from a controversial challenge by Espanyol defender Carlos Romero, who escaped a red card despite a reckless tackle. Adding to the controversy, Romero went on to score the decisive goal in Madrid’s 1-0 defeat, fueling outrage within the club. The Spanish giants have since sent an official letter to the Spanish Football Federation, condemning refereeing standards in La Liga as “rigged” and “completely discredited.”
Speaking to reporters, Ancelotti expressed frustration over the incident, stating, “Mbappé started training today, but he still needs recovery time. He has a bruised calf, trained normally, but he will not be available tomorrow.” The Italian coach also reiterated his disbelief at Romero avoiding punishment, calling the decision “inexplicable.”
The Mbappé setback compounds Madrid’s defensive woes, with Jude Bellingham, David Alaba, and Antonio Rüdiger also ruled out. Alaba, only recently back from a long-term knee injury, suffered a thigh strain that will sideline him for up to three weeks. This means he is likely to miss the crucial La Liga derby against Atlético Madrid and the first leg of Madrid’s Champions League showdown with Manchester City on February 11.
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With Eder Militão and Dani Carvajal still recovering from long-term injuries, Ancelotti faces a defensive crisis. The likely center-back pairing for upcoming matches will see youngster Raúl Asencio step up alongside midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, who may be forced into an unfamiliar role.
Ancelotti acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “Unfortunately, we’ve lost two important players in the last two days. It’s a difficult moment, but we have to manage with the squad we have. Alaba will be out for 15 to 20 days, and Rüdiger the same, but we will push through.”
Madrid now turns its attention to Leganés in the Copa del Rey, with the club desperate to bounce back amid growing tension over refereeing decisions and mounting injury concerns.
