Real Madrid assistant coach Davide Ancelotti confirmed Kylian Mbappé has apologized after being sent off for a reckless challenge during Madrid’s hard-fought 1-0 La Liga win at Alavés on Sunday. The French forward received a straight red card following a VAR-reviewed tackle on midfielder Antonio Blanco in the first half, leaving Ancelotti to acknowledge the player’s accountability.
Match Highlights and Controversy
The game’s turning point came in the 34th minute when Eduardo Camavinga scored the decisive goal, shortly after Raúl Asencio had a strike ruled out for a foul. Mbappé’s dismissal four minutes later reduced Madrid to 10 men, though parity was restored in the second half after Alavés defender Manu Sánchez was also sent off for a dangerous challenge on Vinícius Júnior.
With suspended head coach Carlo Ancelotti watching from the sidelines, the victory kept Madrid within four points of league leaders Barcelona. Davide Ancelotti, son of the absent manager, addressed Mbappé’s actions: “He isn’t a violent player. He’s apologized and understands his mistake. The red was justified, but persistent fouling against him sparked his frustration — not that it excuses the reaction.”
Disciplinary Fallout and Upcoming Challenges
This marked Mbappé’s first red card since joining Madrid last summer, contrasting with three dismissals during his Paris Saint-Germain career. The club now awaits the Spanish federation’s decision on his suspension, which could sideline him for key league matches against Athletic Club and Getafe ahead of April 26’s Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
The incident compounded a turbulent week for Madrid, which included a 3-0 Champions League quarterfinal loss to Arsenal. Midfielder Dani Ceballos, returning from injury, urged teammates to “give 200%” in the second leg: “We need unity and an electric Bernabéu atmosphere to turn this around.”
Offensive Chants Halt Play
The match was briefly paused in the second half after referee César Soto Grado responded to chants of “Asencio, die” directed at Madrid’s defender. Ancelotti condemned the abuse but deferred accountability: “It’s disappointing, but action rests with the officials.”
As Madrid navigates a packed schedule, balancing league ambitions with European redemption, Mbappé’s discipline and the team’s resilience will remain under scrutiny.
