After a grueling success against Valencia (2-1) in La Liga, Real must manage a series of crucial matches, including a Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Mallorca in three days. Previously, the Merengue club must negotiate a Copa del Rey match against Deportivo Minera. For this trip to Cartagena, Ancelotti chose to preserve several executives, such as Thibaut Courtois and Anthony Rüdiger, absent from the match sheet. However, the Cup regulations require the start of at least seven professional players, limiting the possibilities of full rotation.
Mbappé shouldn't even come off the bench
But that doesn't stop Carlo Ancelotti from making another strong decision by leaving Kylian Mbappé on the bench against the fourth division club according to l'Equipe. Although the French striker has systematically started when he was fit this season, the Real Madrid coach opts to spare him in a particularly busy month of January. Mbappé, although essential in Madrid's strategy for 2025, is thus spared to avoid any overload or injury. This prudent management also takes into account the possible absence of Vinicius Jr, sent off during the last La Liga match, which accentuates the need to preserve the team's strengths.
If the Copa del Rey remains a goal for Real Madrid, the Italian coach favors a long-term approach, aware that Mbappé's performances will be decisive in other competitions. This calculated management reflects the new central place of the French striker in the Madrid project and his key role in the months to come.
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To summarize
While the schedule is seriously increasing for Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti has made a strong decision with Kylian Mbappé. The Madrid striker will be on the bench this Monday evening in the Copa del Rey, and should not come off the bench.
