Mbappé Receives One-Game Suspension for Controversial Tackling Incident

MADRID, Spain — Kylian Mbappé, the star forward for Real Madrid, has been suspended for one match following a controversial red card received during a recent match against Deportivo Alavés. The decision, announced by the Spanish Football Federation’s (RFEF) Disciplinary Committee, comes after Mbappé’s foul on Alavés player Antonio Blanco that has sparked outrage among fans and analysts alike.

The incident occurred in the 38th minute of the match, where Mbappé was shown a red card for a violent tackle described as entering ‘with the foot in a stamping motion at the height of an opponent’s shin, in the dispute for the ball, using excessive force.’ This wording, drawn from the referee Soto Grado’s game report, played a pivotal role in determining the length of the suspension.

According to data analyst MisterChip, the phrase ‘in the dispute for the ball’ was instrumental in limiting Mbappé’s punishment to a single match, allowing him to return just in time for the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona scheduled for April 26.

The backlash against the French international was immediate as footage of the tackle went viral, showing Mbappé’s reckless attempt to contest the ball, which contrasted sharply with the official report’s implications of the intended play. This incident has raised questions regarding player safety and disciplinary consistency within La Liga.

Following the match, where Real Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory, Mbappé expressed regret for his actions, reaching out to Blanco to apologize. ‘I acknowledge my mistake, and I hope Antonio is doing well,’ said Mbappé during a press conference. ‘Leaving my team with one less player was not my intention.’

Real Madrid will face Athletic Bilbao on Sunday without their star forward. The Disciplinary Committee’s decision is noteworthy given the potential range of penalties, which could have included suspensions of up to three games based on the severity of the infraction.

Alavés player Manu Sánchez, who also received a red card during the match for a similar tackle on Vinícius Júnior, was handed the same one-game suspension by the RFEF. The committee, chaired by María Josefa García, determined the appropriate disciplinary measures based on the match officials’ reports.

Real Madrid’s head coach Davide Ancelotti, who managed the team in Carlo Ancelotti’s absence, commented on the decision, emphasizing that while the disciplinary action was necessary, he supported Mbappé’s character. ‘Kylian is not a violent player. He made a mistake, acknowledged it, and we will ensure it does not happen again,’ Ancelotti stated.

This incident has added another chapter to an already tumultuous season for Real Madrid as they aim to maintain their position in La Liga and prepare for upcoming European competitions. With Mbappé now free to play in the final, the pressure mounts on the squad to improve their form and compete for titles in the remaining weeks of the season.