Madrid, Spain – Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid‘s star forward, received a red card during a match against Deportivo Alavés on April 13, 2025, due to a dangerous tackle on Antonio Blanco. The incident occurred in the 38th minute, where Mbappé’s cleats struck Blanco’s shin, resulting in an immediate ejection after a VAR review overturned a prior yellow card decision by referee César Soto Grado.
Despite the brutal nature of the foul, Real Madrid officials stated that Mbappé did not intend to injure Blanco and that no serious injury occurred. This context suggests his suspension could be limited to one to three games, allowing him to play in the upcoming Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona on April 26.
The referee’s match report highlights the severity of the incident, noting that Mbappé used excessive force during a dispute for the ball. Soto Grado observed, “In the 38th minute, Kylian Mbappé was sent off for entering with his foot in a stamp manner to the tibia of a rival while contesting the ball, using excessive force.”
Mbappé’s ejection marks the fourth of his career, with previous red cards issued during his time at Paris Saint-Germain for similar infractions. This latest dismissal, however, reflects a troubling pattern in an otherwise talented career and appears to be out of character for the player known for his technical skill rather than aggression.
After the match, a remorseful Mbappé approached Blanco to apologize for his actions. “It was a strong tackle, but I’m glad he’s okay,” Blanco commented after the match, acknowledging that such incidents are part of football. Real Madrid’s interim coach, Davide Ancelotti, affirmed, “Kylian is not a violent player; he took it too far, but he’s not that type of player.” He remarked that the mounting frustration from numerous fouls committed against Mbappé earlier in the game might have provoked his impulsive reaction.
Mbappé’s absence from the next matches could highlight the lack of discipline currently affecting Real Madrid’s locker room, further complicating their run in LaLiga and Champions League as they struggle to regain momentum this season. The upcoming decision from the RFEF’s Competition Committee will determine the extent of the suspension, which ranges from a minimum of one match based on the incident’s circumstances. Despite the intense scrutiny, it remains likely that Mbappé will feature in the crucial Copa del Rey final.
