Real Madrid are set to receive a timely boost ahead of their Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, as forward Kylian Mbappe is expected to return from injury. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed on Tuesday that the French star, along with defender Ferland Mendy, is close to full fitness.
Mbappe missed Monday’s narrow 1-0 La Liga win over Athletic Bilbao after picking up an ankle injury during Madrid’s Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal. Mendy, meanwhile, has been sidelined with a hamstring issue.
Speaking to the media, Ancelotti stated that while neither player would be available for the midweek match against Getafe, both were making progress and should be fit for Saturday’s final. He explained that their return to training was scheduled for the coming days, and he was optimistic about their availability.
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The Madrid manager also addressed his squad’s physical condition, noting that some players were still recovering from the weekend fixture. He added that his team selection against Getafe would depend on who had fully recovered from the previous game.
Praising Getafe, Ancelotti described them as a well-organised side that plays high-intensity football, stressing the importance of focus as the season reaches its decisive stages.
Ancelotti also showed empathy toward Mbappe’s frustration, saying the striker was disappointed to be missing matches and was doing everything possible to return in time for the final.
Off the pitch, uncertainty surrounds Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid following their Champions League elimination. Reports suggest that the Italian could part ways with the club at the end of the season.
Among the possible replacements being discussed are Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso and former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, both reportedly on the club’s radar should Ancelotti step down.