Mbappe Faces Pressure in El Clasico for Record-Breaking Season

MADRID, Spain — All eyes are once again on Kylian Mbappe as he approaches another El Clasico match against Barcelona. The French superstar, who joined Real Madrid last summer, has had an impressive debut season in La Liga, scoring 36 goals across all competitions. However, he has yet to make an impactful statement in Spain’s most renowned fixture.

This season, Mbappe’s performances in three encounters with Barcelona have not met the high expectations fans had for one of football’s brightest stars. With a fourth and final opportunity nearing, the stage is set for him to change that narrative. This match is not only about pride but also about records and personal achievements.

Currently, Mbappe has scored 24 goals in La Liga, putting him just one behind Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski in the race for the Pichichi Trophy, awarded to the league’s top scorer. Lewandowski is slated to play against Real Madrid and potentially could shift the scoring race.

Beyond the Pichichi, Mbappe is on track to become Real Madrid’s highest-scoring debutant in a full season. His current goal tally ranks him among the top debutants of the 21st century, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Ruud van Nistelrooy. Unlike Ronaldo, who fell short, Mbappe still has the chance to capture the top scorer title this season.

Additionally, he eyes Ivan Zamorano‘s record of 37 goals set in 1992-93 for Real Madrid. With four league games remaining and the Club World Cup to play, many expect Mbappe to surpass that mark and possibly become the first to score 40 goals in a debut season.

Meanwhile, a member of the Real Madrid defense, Fran Garcia, also faces pressure in the Clasico. Although he has two years remaining on his contract, his positioning within the squad hangs on his performance against Lamine Yamal. A strong showing could prove his value as the team transitions under new management.

Garcia previously faced Yamal in the Copa del Rey final and struggled early in their matchup but adapted well. With the arrival of new coach Xabi Alonso, competition is stiff, and Garcia understands the importance of this match for his future.

Real Madrid’s strategy involves limiting Yamal’s chances, as he prefers to receive the ball at his feet rather than making deep runs. This insight shapes Garcia’s approach: to stay tight on Yamal, requiring focus and stamina. Success could secure a crucial win for Madrid and reassure Alonso of Garcia’s capabilities, while failure could signal a need for change in the defender’s future.