The news electrified the Spanish media this Thursday: Kylian Mbappé, undisputed star of Real Madrid, could miss the shock against Arsenal on April 8. An absence that would deprive the Merengue club of its most formidable offensive weapon, while the Frenchman has already scored 31 goals this season. But for what reason?
The answer hides behind the scenes of the round of 16 return against Atlético Madrid on March 12. UEFA has opened an investigation for “Undent behavior” Aiming from four Real players, including Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Antonio Rüdiger and Dani Ceballos. Images would show the French international striking his crotch during the celebrations after the penalty victory, a gesture similar to that of Jude Bellingham in 2024, sanctioned with a fine of € 30,000 and a suspended suspension match.
Will Real be deprived of Mbappé against Arsenal?
If the European body retains an immediate suspension, Mbappé would miss the first leg to the Emirates Stadium. A nightmarish scenario for Carlo Ancelotti, which focuses on its speed to destabilize Arsenal's defense. For Merengue supporters, it would also be a disappointment: while Vinicius crosses a delicate pass, Le Bondynois embodies the hope of a Madrid triumph in C1 this season.
The UEFA bomb that threatens Mbappé and Real
Mikel Arteta, the guy coach, secretly hopes for this sanction. Deprived of its number 1 scarecrow, Real would lose offensive power, as evidenced by its 40% of goals scored directly by Mbappé in direct elimination phase. UEFA has not specified the calendar of its decision, but time is running out: the verdict could fall within 72 hours.
Internally, the club remains cautious. No official comments have been formulated, but sources close to the locker room entrusted to Sky Sports that “The Madrid legal team is working on the file to avoid the worst”. A paid strategy? In 2024, Bellingham had escaped a firm suspension thanks to an appeal. Mbappé could benefit from the same treatment …
