Real Madrid will be without star striker Kylian Mbappé for Sunday’s highly anticipated Clasico against FC Barcelona, a contest that could effectively decide the La Liga title race in favour of the hosts.
Mbappé, currently the league’s leading scorer with 24 goals, has failed to recover in time from a left hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined since the end of April. His absence represents a major setback for Madrid heading into one of the biggest fixtures of the season.
Barcelona enter the encounter at Camp Nou holding a commanding 11-point advantage over their arch-rivals. With only four matches remaining after Sunday’s showdown, the Catalan side can officially secure the league title with either a victory or even a draw against Madrid.
For Real Madrid, the loss of Mbappé compounds what has already been a frustrating and disappointing campaign. The team is now largely battling to avoid the humiliation of witnessing Barcelona celebrate the championship in front of them on home turf.
The French superstar recently addressed criticism from sections of the fanbase, reaffirming his commitment to the club amid rumours suggesting he was being overly cautious with his recovery in order to protect his fitness ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
Madrid’s problems, however, have not been confined to injuries or performances on the field. Reports suggest tensions within the squad have escalated in recent weeks, adding to the pressure surrounding the club.
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Midfielders Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni were both reportedly fined €500,000 after an altercation during training that allegedly resulted in Valverde sustaining a head injury.
In another reported incident at the training ground, defender Antonio Rüdiger was said to have been involved in a separate confrontation with teammate Álvaro Carreras, highlighting the increasingly tense atmosphere within the dressing room.
Manager Álvaro Arbeloa, who assumed charge following the departure of Xabi Alonso earlier this year, is also facing growing scrutiny as Madrid edge closer to a second consecutive season without winning a major trophy.
Meanwhile, speculation surrounding the club’s future continues to intensify. Club president Florentino Pérez is reportedly considering bringing back former manager José Mourinho in an attempt to restore stability and revive the club’s fortunes.
Sunday’s Clasico therefore carries enormous significance for both teams — Barcelona are aiming to mathematically seal another league title, while Real Madrid are desperate to restore some pride and end a turbulent season on a positive note.
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