Kylian Mbappe will accompany the Real Madrid squad to Qatar for the 2024 Intercontinental Cup final on Wednesday, December 18, despite sustaining a thigh muscle injury during the UEFA Champions League clash against Atalanta on Tuesday.
The French superstar showcased his brilliance early in the match, scoring a superb goal within the opening 10 minutes to give Madrid the lead in an eventual 3-2 victory.
However, his night was cut short as he was forced off after just 25 minutes due to injury.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has reassured fans that the issue is “not very serious,” confirming that Mbappe will join the squad traveling to Qatar.
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However, he remains a doubt for the final and will not feature in the La Liga game against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
Ancelotti’s Injury Update
“Mbappe isn’t anything very serious,” Ancelotti stated during a Friday press conference.
“He won’t be there for the match [against Rayo tomorrow], but he’ll travel to Qatar and see if he can play part of the [Intercontinental Cup final] without risk.”
This is the second muscle injury Mbappe has endured since his high-profile move to Real Madrid, having previously missed three weeks earlier this season due to a hamstring issue in September.
Improving Form Despite Setbacks
Despite a slow start to his Real Madrid career, the 25-year-old forward has hit his stride recently, scoring in consecutive games against Girona and Atalanta.
He now boasts 12 goals in 22 matches for Los Blancos, including nine in La Liga.
Ancelotti praised Mbappe’s progress, highlighting his improved performances in recent weeks.
“In the last two [international] breaks [Mbappe] has been here, he has worked well and he has rested.”
“Fortunately, [this injury] is minor, and he will not lose the momentum he has built lately.”
Real Madrid’s Pursuit of Silverware
Real Madrid remains firmly in contention for multiple titles this season.
They are chasing La Liga leaders Barcelona, with a game in hand, and are 20th in the revamped Champions League table.
Reflecting on the team’s performance against Atalanta, Ancelotti expressed optimism.
“The commitment and attitude of everyone, the individual quality – it was a complete game, and it gives us optimism for the future,” he said.
The upcoming Intercontinental Cup final in Qatar offers Real Madrid a chance to secure their first trophy of the season.
Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Mbappe’s availability as the team prepares for this crucial encounter.
