Real Madrid will face a significant challenge in their upcoming clash against Atlético Madrid in the semifinals of the Spanish Super Cup. The match is set to take place on Thursday at Alinma Bank Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, marking the kickoff of the 2025–26 football year. Unfortunately for the Madrid side, they will be without their top scorer, Kylian Mbappé, who is nursing an injury.
Kylian Mbappé’s Injury Status
Kylian Mbappé suffered a knee injury after the holiday break. Initially returning to training, he was later diagnosed with a sprain in his left knee on New Year’s Eve. After missing Real Madrid’s 5–1 victory over Real Betis, Mbappé underwent a late fitness test but was unable to participate in the upcoming match.
Implications for Real Madrid
- Mbappé has scored 29 goals so far in the 2025–26 season.
- His absence puts pressure on other players, including Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham, who each have five goals.
- Other attacking options include Gonzalo García and Rodrygo, who will need to perform well in his absence.
Reports suggest that Mbappé’s recovery could take at least three weeks, potentially sidelining him until January 25, when Real Madrid faces Villarreal. Consequently, he will miss several crucial matches, including the Copa del Rey round of 16 against Albacete and a La Liga encounter with Levante.
Upcoming Matches
While Real Madrid faces some challenges without their star player, the team is expected to navigate through upcoming matches. They are competing against:
- Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semifinals.
- A potential final against Barcelona, should they advance.
- Copa del Rey against Albacete.
- La Liga match with Levante.
- Champions League clash versus Monaco.
Despite the setback of losing Mbappé, Real Madrid is viewed as capable of managing their second-tier opponents in the Copa del Rey and competing effectively in La Liga and the Champions League. The team’s biggest hurdles will occur during the Super Cup matches against Atlético and possibly Barcelona, should they reach the final.
