How Many Matches of Suspension Mbappé Could Face, a LaLiga Referee Reveals

Kylian Mbappé suffered his first expulsion as a Real Madrid player last Sunday in the match played at Mendizorroza. The French forward left the Whites with ten men after being sent off with a direct red card in the 38th minute of the first half. A harsh tackle on Antonio Blanco with his studs up was the reason.

The referee of the match, Soto Grado, initially showed him a yellow card. However, after a VAR review and closely observing the play on the field screen, he changed his decision. Mbappé forcefully struck the right shin of the Alavés player with his studs, in an action that due to its severity caused great concern on the field.

He Won't Miss the Cup Final Against Barça

Kylian Mbappé's participation in the Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona will depend on the decision made by the RFEF Committee.

In the match report, referee Soto Grado justified the French forward's expulsion by stating it was for "a tackle with the foot in a studs-up position at the height of an opponent's shin, in a contest for the ball, using excessive force".

The mention that the action occurred in the context of the game suggests that the sanction could be limited to two matches. This would allow Kylian Mbappé to be available to play in the final, unless something unexpected happens.

Iturralde González's Opinion on the Expulsion

Iturralde González, former Primera División referee, analyzed on 'Cadena SER' the possible sanction facing Kylian Mbappé. "Mbappé will face Article 130 because he hasn't removed the opponent from the field. It's very clear," he commented.

"It is sanctioned with a suspension of one to two matches. For me, it will be two, and if they give him three, Real Madrid will appeal, and it should be two. He should always play in the Cup final," added Iturralde González.

If so, Kylian Mbappé would not play in next weekend's match at Bernabéu against Athletic Club (April 20). He also wouldn't be present in Real Madrid's tough visit to Getafe CF's field (April 23). However, the Frenchman would be included in the squad to face Barça (April 26) at La Cartuja in Seville.