Real Madrid managed to keep their faint La Liga title aspirations alive with a 2-0 victory over Espanyol on Sunday. However, their hopes will be significantly diminished if they fail to defeat Barcelona in the upcoming El Clasico next weekend. With four matches left to play, Alvaro Arbeloa’s team trails their fierce rivals by 11 points. While a comeback seems unlikely, they are determined not to concede the title to Barcelona themselves.
Real Madrid’s recent record against Barcelona in El Clasico matches has been poor, with only one win in their last six encounters since the beginning of last season. Their task will be even more challenging as Eder Militao and Arda Guler are unavailable due to injuries. Nevertheless, the club is optimistic about having Kylian Mbappe fit in time for the crucial match at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Mbappe has been sidelined since being substituted off against Real Betis ten days ago. Although he did not feature against Espanyol, there is a strong desire for him to receive medical clearance before Sunday’s highly anticipated clash. However, according to reports from Diario AS, his availability is far from certain.
Mbappe is expected to return to Valdebebas within the next 24 to 48 hours, following a week-long break. Upon his return, he will undergo further medical examinations. The results of these tests will provide Real Madrid with a clearer indication of whether he can participate in this weekend’s El Clasico.
Mbappe’s situation will likely be handled with caution
Mbappe has faced several injury issues over the past six months. Consequently, both he and Real Madrid are keen to avoid any unnecessary risks in this situation. Furthermore, with the World Cup on the horizon this summer, there is an added element of risk in returning to play when not fully fit – a fact that he is undoubtedly aware of.
