In a surprising turn of events, Kylian Mbappé’s absence from Real Madrid’s lineup for the Copa del Rey semifinal against Real Sociedad has raised eyebrows amongst fans and analysts alike. Initially, coach Carlo Ancelotti indicated confidently that the French forward would be fit for the match despite undergoing a tooth extraction earlier in the week. His earlier declaration included an assurance that Mbappé would travel with the team and have an opportunity to feature in the high-stakes cup tie. Yet, as the squad announcement arrived, it became clear that the star was not included, leading many to speculate about the severity of his dental issue and whether Ancelotti’s optimism was miscalculated.
The absence of Mbappé is not the only concern for Real Madrid. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and midfielder Federico Valverde will also miss the clash, compounding the challenges facing Ancelotti. Particularly for a squad that has adapted well to pressures, these missing pieces could tilt the scale in favor of their opponents. Courtois, while not expected to play, has been a consistent presence on the bench, providing crucial leadership. Meanwhile, Valverde’s fatigue following a match against Manchester City means he needs time to recuperate; this decision underlines the importance of player longevity over immediate performance.
As Madrid gears up for a grueling series of matches, the team will have to navigate the fixture list creatively. They will face Real Betis in the La Liga this upcoming weekend, followed by a pivotal Champions League contest against city rivals Atletico in the round of 16. Each match is laden with implications for Madrid’s overall performance this season. The coaching staff, alongside medical teams, will undoubtedly have to innovate strategies to maximize their roster’s effectiveness without the usual stars.
Despite this hiccup, Mbappé’s overall form this season has been stellar. With 14 goals in 2025 alone, he had been a cornerstone of Madrid’s attacking strategy. His performances have included a remarkable hat trick against Manchester City, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. However, maintaining peak health is crucial for athletes of his caliber; a single dental issue may spiral into larger concerns if not addressed appropriately. The club’s reliance on him for key matches has implications for future strategies, especially if he remains susceptible to injuries or ailments.
Real Madrid’s future seems filled with both promise and challenges. The coaching staff’s decisions, particularly concerning player management and rotations during this busy schedule, will greatly influence their chances for success in domestic and European competitions. As the squad adjusts to these unexpected absences, fans will be keenly observing how effectively they can cope and whether they can still achieve dominance in the remaining campaigns. Whether it’s star players, tactical maneuvers, or injury management, every element will play a part in shaping Real Madrid’s destiny this season.