Kylian Mbappé's fate for the upcoming Copa del Rey final is tied to the interpretation of a specific rule in Spanish football's Disciplinary Code. Following a heated incident in a recent game against Deportivo Alavés, the French superstar is under scrutiny after receiving a red card for a highly controversial tackle.
The Incident and Its Aftermath
The drama unfolded on April 13, when Mbappé—currently signed with Real Madrid—was involved in a disputed challenge on Alavés midfielder Antonio Blanco. Initially noted as a yellow card offense by referee César Soto Grado, the decision turned more severe with the intervention of VAR, leading to Mbappé's early exit as the card was escalated to red.
The challenge itself was characterized by Mbappé's studs making significant contact with Blanco’s shin. In football terms, such an act falls under potential 'excessive force' once reviewed, making Article 130 of the Disciplinary Code crucial in determining further action. In this instance, no serious injury was caused to Blanco, as evidenced by his ability to continue playing, but the tackle's aggression did not go unnoticed.
Legal Framework and Expected Outcome
Article 130 delineates suspensions for actions that involve violent behavior yet do not result in injuries. Generally, this could lead to a suspension spanning one to three matches. With Blanco remaining unscathed, sources within the football community are already gearing towards a likely two-match ban for Mbappé.
If enforced, this suspension rules him out from Real Madrid's imminent La Liga matches against Athletic Club and Getafe, slated for April 20 and April 23. However, it strategically positions him to return in time for the Copa del Rey final against their fierce rivals, Barcelona, scheduled for April 26.
Reacting to this heavy scrutiny, Mbappé came forward with a public apology directed at both Blanco and his Real Madrid teammates, accepting accountability for his actions on the field. This incident not only marks his first ejection since joining Madrid but also adds to a total of four red cards in his professional journey.
The unfolding situation has sparked diverse opinions among the football fraternity. While some argue the proposed suspension might be too lenient given the tackle's intensity, others accept it as a fair interpretation under Article 130's existing framework.
As the Disciplinary Committee moves towards a conclusive sanction, the football world keenly watches, particularly given the looming Copa del Rey showdown, where Mbappé's skill and star power might become pivotal against Barcelona's tactical might.
