Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has definitively confirmed that French star Kylian Mbappé will miss the upcoming derby against city rivals Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final. Alonso's statement puts an end to recent speculation surrounding the Frenchman's availability for this crucial match.
During Wednesday's press conference, Alonso explained the details of Mbappé's medical condition, saying, "Mbappé has a sprained knee and will not play tomorrow, but we are very optimistic that he will be ready for the final if we qualify." This statement places additional responsibility on the rest of the team to compensate for the absence of one of their key attacking weapons in a do-or-die match.
The importance of the Spanish Super Cup and the context of the competition
The Spanish Super Cup, in its current format, holds immense strategic importance for the participating clubs. It is the first domestic title available this season, and winning it provides a tremendous morale boost for the team as they continue their campaigns in La Liga and the Champions League. In recent years, the tournament has transformed from a mere formality into a fiercely contested "Final Four" format, intensifying the competition and making every match feel like an early final, especially when it involves a clash between the two Madrid giants.
Madrid derby: A renewed rivalry
During his address, the Real Madrid coach emphasized that the match would be entirely different from league encounters, noting that all the players must rise to the occasion and demonstrate their defensive and offensive strength. Alonso added that the match would be "more competitive" than their previous meeting, reflecting the historical nature of the Madrid derby, which is always characterized by intense rivalry, excitement, and physical clashes, regardless of the teams' position in the standings or their current form.
Betting on Vinicius Junior
With Mbappé absent, all eyes will be on Brazilian star Vinicius Junior to lead Real Madrid's attack. The Spanish coach concluded his remarks by noting that the coaching staff and players will help Vinicius reach his best form in the match, which will take place at 10 PM tomorrow, Thursday. Vinicius is expected to play a pivotal role in unlocking Atlético Madrid's defense and exploiting spaces, in an attempt to secure a place in the final and compete for the title.
