He didn’t learn his lesson: Mbappe was already sent off in a PSG final for a similar challenge

Kylian Mbappe made headlines this Sunday during Real Madrid’s clash with Deportivo Alaves, but not for a brilliant goal or dazzling dribble. The French striker was shown a straight red card in the first half after a dangerous tackle, leaving his side down to ten men while they held a narrow lead.

• 

  Recommended

  (VIDEO) Unbelievable tackle from Kylian Mbappe ends in straight red

The incident immediately set off alarm bells at Valdebebas. Beyond its impact on the match itself, the club is worried about the potential consequences in terms of suspension. Initial fears suggest Mbappe could miss up to four matches, including the highly anticipated Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on 26 April in Seville.

What makes matters worse is that this is not the first time something like this has happened. Back in 2019, while playing for Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappe was sent off for a similarly reckless challenge in the Coupe de France final against Rennes. PSG ended up losing that match on penalties.

The similarities are striking. Both incidents occurred during high-stakes matches and involved mistimed, unnecessary tackles that cost his teams dearly. Although Mbappe is not known for violent conduct, these lapses in judgement during key moments raise eyebrows within the squad and among Carlo Ancelotti’s staff.

Real Madrid have no intention of appealing the red card. For now, the club hopes the ban will be limited to two league matches, which would allow Mbappe to return in time for the final against Barcelona. The player left the pitch visibly frustrated, fully aware that his decision could have serious consequences.

• 

  Recommended

  Not Cuti Romero or Enzo Fernández: the World Cup winner Real Madrid want to sign

Back in the spotlight at the worst possible time

The parallels between the red card in Paris and the one in Madrid are difficult to ignore. Just when he was expected to lead the team through the final stretch of the season, Mbappe once again finds himself under scrutiny for an avoidable error. Real Madrid can only hope history does not repeat itself when it matters most.