“He wasn’t here last season” - Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti explains plans to cope without Kylian Mbappe ahead of blockbuster Madrid derby
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has explained how his side will cope with the absence of star forward Kylian Mbappe in the derby against Atletico Madrid on Sunday (September 29). The France international is set for a first spell on the sidelines through injury since joining the club this summer.
Former Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) star Mbappe had to leave the game against Alaves in midweek after picking up what appeared to be a thigh problem. The 25-year-old found the net in that game, which his side won 3-2, but could only play for 80 minutes before being forced off the pitch through injury.
Carlo Ancelotti will have to deal with Mbappe not being part of his Matchday squad for the first time since the start of the season. The Italian manager explained in his pre-match press conference ahead of the derby that he does not consider this to be a problem. He said:
“I don’t pay much attention to the system. A 4-3-3 can change to 4-4-2 with the same players. It may be that with three strikers it will be a 4-4-2 with Vini or Rodrygo as a winger. What I want is for the team to be supportive and committed. We’re used to playing without Mbappe, he wasn’t here last season. We will be fine.”
Kylian Mbappe becomes the latest player to require the treatment table this season for Los Blancos, potentially hampering his fine run of form. The forward has six goals in his last seven games for the club, scoring in each of his last five games for the side.
The absence of the Frenchman through injury will leave room for Brazilian teenager Endrick to play a larger role for Los Blancos. The youngster may be handed his first start for the club at the Wanda Metropolitano, as a result.
French midfielder set to return for Real Madrid in derby
France international Eduardo Camavinga is set to return to action for Real Madrid when they face city rivals Atletico Madrid on Sunday. The 21-year-old midfielder has yet to feature for the club this season, having injured his knee ahead of the UEFA Super Cup win against Atalanta.
Carlo Ancelotti confirmed in his press conference that the midfielder is back to full fitness and may be considered to feature from the start. He returned to team training this week, and is in good condition to play for Real Madrid.
“Camavinga has recovered well, he is in good condition. If a player is available, he can play 90 or zero minutes.”
Camavinga is considered as one of the best young midfielders in Europe, judging by his importance to Real Madrid. Last season, he featured 46 times across all competitions, and is expected to tally a similar number this season.