Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti made it clear that his team will rely heavily on Kylian Mbappe as they attempt to overturn a 3-0 deficit against Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-final. The reigning titleholders are facing a daunting task after a heavy loss at the Emirates Stadium, and only a spectacular comeback at the Santiago Bernabeu will be enough to keep their European hopes alive.
The pressure is firmly on Madrid, with their Champions League run hanging by a thread. Ancelotti needs every available weapon, and Mbappe, despite recent controversy, is available for selection. The French forward was dismissed during Madrid’s 1-0 league win over Alaves for a reckless challenge that drew widespread criticism. However, his suspension does not impact his Champions League availability.
Domestic ban doesn’t affect European competition
Mbappe’s dismissal came during a La Liga fixture, meaning the punishment issued by Spanish authorities does not apply to European matches. As a result, the striker remains eligible to face Arsenal in the return leg at home. Had the incident occurred in the first leg of the quarter-final, he would have missed the second leg, but since it took place in domestic play, the ban will not interfere with continental competition.
Calls for a lengthy suspension followed the challenge, with some suggesting a ten-game ban. Ultimately, referee Cesar Soto Grado described the foul as clumsy rather than violent. The Spanish Football Federation chose to impose a one-match suspension, the minimum penalty, ruling Mbappé out of the upcoming La Liga match against Athletic Club.
This decision allows Madrid to field one of their key players in a match that could define their season. While Mbappe will miss domestic action, his presence in the European tie offers Ancelotti a much-needed boost as they seek to produce one of the Champions League’s most memorable turnarounds.
