Real Madrid is encountering a new set of injury worries at a critical point in the season. Just before their Copa del Rey quarter-final against Leganés, Carlo Ancelotti confirmed several absences, with Kylian Mbappé’s being the most significant. The French forward, who was expected to lead the attack, will miss the match due to a contusion, putting a major dent in Madrid’s aspirations.
Ancelotti, speaking at the pre-match press conference, updated the media on the situation. “He started training today, but he’s suffering from a contusion and won’t be available for the match,” the Italian coach explained. Mbappé’s absence is more than just a short-term issue; it raises concerns about his availability for upcoming matches, including important La Liga games and the Champions League knockout rounds.
With Mbappé out, Real Madrid will need to rely on other attacking options. This could provide an opportunity for Endrick, the young Brazilian who has struggled to find significant game time since his arrival. A Copa del Rey match against a second-tier team might be the ideal chance for him to demonstrate his potential and earn more playing time in the future.
However, the bad news for Madrid doesn’t end with Mbappé. Ancelotti also confirmed another significant blow, this time in defense. David Alaba, one of the team’s most experienced defenders, will be out for at least three weeks due to an adductor muscle issue in his left leg. This is a major setback for Madrid’s defensive setup, especially as the team is already dealing with multiple injuries in that area.
Alaba’s absence couldn’t have come at a worse time. With Éder Militão still regaining full fitness and Antonio Rüdiger carrying a heavy workload, Ancelotti will be forced to make changes to his defense. The lack of depth in central defense could require tactical adjustments, such as moving Aurélien Tchouaméni into a makeshift center-back role, a position he has filled on occasion this season.
The injury crisis is not limited to the defense, as midfielder Jude Bellingham has also been ruled out of the Leganés match. The English player sustained a knock during training, and Ancelotti confirmed that he would not be risked for this game. “He’s taken a knock and won’t be available,” the Madrid coach stated, adding to the growing list of absentees.
The combined absences of Mbappé and Bellingham severely weaken Madrid’s offensive threat. Both have been vital contributors this season, offering goals, assists, and creativity. Without them, Ancelotti will need to lean on his squad’s depth, potentially giving more responsibility to veterans like Luka Modrić and Dani Ceballos, or placing Rodrygo in a more central attacking role.
Madrid’s squad rotation will be severely tested in this Copa del Rey tie. Ancelotti may choose to rearrange the midfield, with Federico Valverde taking on a deeper role to provide defensive cover. This could allow Camavinga to return to his preferred midfield position, while Ceballos and Modrić take charge of playmaking duties. Brahim Díaz could also be given an opportunity to start in attack.
Defensive reshuffling will likely be needed as well. With Alaba out, Ferland Mendy might be called upon as an emergency center-back, allowing Fran García to step into the left-back position. Another option is to pair Nacho Fernández with Rüdiger while keeping the full-backs unchanged. However, Ancelotti’s options will be limited, and the depth of the squad will be tested.
Injuries have been a recurring issue for Real Madrid this season. The physical demands of competing on multiple fronts have taken a toll, and with crucial La Liga and Champions League fixtures approaching, Madrid cannot afford further setbacks. Each absence requires tactical adjustments, and Ancelotti will need to be inventive in managing his resources.
Despite the challenges, Madrid remains a formidable team. Even with key players missing, the squad still has enough quality to secure a result against Leganés. Players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Joselu will need to step up in Mbappé’s absence, while the midfield trio of Valverde, Camavinga, and Modrić will need to control the game’s tempo.
The defensive adjustments, although necessary, could leave Madrid’s backline vulnerable. Leganés, despite being the underdogs, will look to exploit any defensive weaknesses. For Ancelotti’s side, maintaining possession and minimizing counterattacks will be crucial in ensuring their makeshift defense isn’t exposed.
Beyond this Copa del Rey match, Madrid fans will be concerned about the recovery timelines for their injured players. While Alaba’s three-week absence is worrisome, the bigger concern is Mbappé and Bellingham. If their injuries persist, Madrid could struggle in upcoming matches, especially in the Champions League, where their attacking power will be crucial.
For now, Ancelotti will need to rely on his squad players to deliver. The next few weeks could be an opportunity for fringe players to step up and earn more involvement. Whether it’s Endrick, Brahim, or Camavinga in an advanced role, Madrid will need unexpected heroes to rise to the occasion.
The challenges ahead are daunting, but Madrid has overcome adversity before. Ancelotti’s tactical flexibility and the squad’s resilience will be tested once again. If they can navigate this injury crisis successfully, it could be a turning point for their season, strengthening their resolve for future battles.
