Kylian Mbappé will be available for the Copa del Rey final despite receiving a straight red card during Real Madrid’s match against Alavés. The French forward was sent off after a harsh tackle on Antonio Blanco, where his right boot studs made direct contact with the midfielder’s shin. However, the challenge occurred while contesting the ball, and no injury resulted from the incident — key factors that will limit the severity of the punishment.
Initially, referee César Soto Grado showed a yellow card, but after intervention from VAR official Gil Manzano, the decision was upgraded to a red. Mbappé left the pitch without protest, acknowledging his error.
Kylian Mbappé Suspension: Possible 1-3 Match Ban After Red Card, Final Still Likely
The red card is likely to result in a suspension of between one to three games, falling under the category of “violent conduct” due to the nature of the tackle. However, since the ball was in play and no injury occurred, Mbappé is expected to serve a minor suspension — one that will not interfere with his availability for the Copa del Rey final.
This scenario contrasts with Ángel Correa’s recent four-match suspension, which caused him to miss a key Copa del Rey semi-final — a situation triggered by accumulated sanctions.
Kylian Mbappe was sent off for this HORROR challenge 😳
— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) April 13, 2025
Absolutely disgraceful 😡 pic.twitter.com/4UpMHdx3ys
Mbappé’s rash challenge appeared to be fueled by frustration moments earlier, when a foul by Alavés defender Abqar went uncalled in midfield. In response, Mbappé lunged forcefully into a 50-50 ball — a move that seemed more emotional than tactical in a largely non-threatening area of the pitch.
Mbappé’s Fourth Career Red Card — First in Six Years
The red card in Vitoria marks only the fourth expulsion of Mbappé’s career — and his first since April 2019, when he was sent off in the French Cup final against Rennes. The two other instances occurred in 2018: again vs Rennes in the Cup, and once in Ligue 1 against Nîmes.
This latest incident highlights the growing tension in Real Madrid’s turbulent season — and reflects a rare loss of composure from a player typically known for his calm demeanor on the pitch.
Ahmed
