Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid’s summer acquisition from Paris Saint-Germain, has been a standout player in the ongoing UEFA Champions League campaign. However, during their dramatic 3-2 victory over Atalanta on December 11, 2024, the French forward suffered an injury that left fans and his manager, Carlo Ancelotti, hoping it won’t derail his momentum. Despite an impressive start to the match, Mbappe was forced off the pitch in the first half, leading to concerns over the extent of the injury.
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Mbappe’s Performance: A Bright Start for Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe was in sensational form as he opened the scoring for Real Madrid in the 10th minute of their Champions League clash against Atalanta. His dynamic runs and sharp finishes were causing constant trouble for the Italian side’s defense. Mbappe’s partnership with Brahim Diaz was particularly lethal, with the pair linking up effectively to create numerous chances.
After an early opportunity that saw his shot blocked by Atalanta’s goalkeeper, Mbappe showed his class just eight minutes later. Brahim’s clever pass allowed the French forward to take a quick touch past his defender, and he finished with precision into the bottom corner. The goal marked his 12th of the season and his 50th in the prestigious competition, underscoring his importance to the team.
Despite his excellent form, disaster struck in the 35th minute when Mbappe pulled up after a sprint and was visibly in discomfort. The winger signaled to the bench, and in the 36th minute, Rodrygo was called to replace him. The injury halted what had been a brilliant first-half performance from the French star.
Ancelotti’s Concerns: Injury or Just a Minor Setback?
Carlo Ancelotti expressed cautious optimism after the match regarding Mbappe’s injury. The Real Madrid manager confirmed that the French forward was suffering from an “ischial (lower pelvis) discomfort,” which prevented him from sprinting effectively.
“It doesn’t seem serious, but we’ll see tomorrow after the exams,” Ancelotti said in his post-match interview with Movistar Plus. “He couldn’t sprint, it was bothering him a bit, and we decided to make the substitution.”
This statement reassured fans that the injury may not be as grave as initially feared, though further examinations would provide more clarity. For a player of Mbappe’s calibre, even a minor issue could disrupt his momentum, which is why Ancelotti’s cautious optimism was tempered with a desire for further medical assessments.
Real Madrid’s Victory Despite Mbappe’s Injury
Despite losing their star player in the first half, Real Madrid powered through to secure a thrilling 3-2 win over Atalanta, extending their Champions League winning streak. The game was full of drama and end-to-end action, with both teams showing incredible resilience. After Atalanta equalized in stoppage time before the break, Real Madrid responded in the second half with goals from Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
Vinicius’s goal came early in the second half when he capitalized on a loose ball in the box to restore Madrid’s lead. Bellingham’s effort was even more impressive, as he evaded De Roon with skill before firing into the net. Atalanta fought back through a goal from Ademola Lookman, but Madrid held firm in the final stages to claim the three points.
Ancelotti praised the team’s overall performance, noting how effective the attacking trio of Mbappe, Vinicius, and Bellingham were before the injury. “We were very mobile with Vinicius, Bellingham, and Mbappé, and they did very well,” the manager explained. “Mbappé was playing well at the start and scored a great goal. Our movement up front was decisive.”
What’s Next for Mbappe and Real Madrid?
The future of Kylian Mbappe at Real Madrid hinges on the results of his medical exams. Ancelotti expressed his hope that the issue wasn’t serious, but he also acknowledged the importance of having the Frenchman at full fitness. “Mbappé couldn’t give us more and Rodrygo replaced him, but he wasn’t at 100%. He gave everything he could. With Mbappé at 100%, we might’ve done a lot better.”
Real Madrid will undoubtedly be hoping that their star forward recovers quickly. Real Madrid will undoubtedly be hoping that their star forward recovers quickly. With two crucial games left in the season, one against Austrian side RB Salzburg and the other against French side Brest, and the team still sitting 18th in the table, Mbappe’s absence could hinder their push for a higher position. The Frenchman’s dynamic abilities are key to Madrid’s attack, and his full recovery is crucial as the team looks to strengthen their standing in La Liga and the Champions League.
FAQs
What happened to Kylian Mbappe during the match against Atalanta?
Mbappe suffered a lower pelvis discomfort and signaled for a substitution in the 36th minute during Real Madrid’s 3-2 Champions League win over Atalanta.
What did Carlo Ancelotti say about Mbappe’s condition?
Ancelotti described Mbappe’s injury as an “ischial discomfort” and mentioned, “It doesn’t seem serious, but we’ll see tomorrow after the exams.”
How did Mbappe perform before his injury?
Mbappe opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a clinical finish and caused significant problems for Atalanta’s defense before being forced off the pitch.
How does Mbappe’s injury impact Real Madrid’s season?
Real Madrid faces two critical games against Rayo Vallecano on 15 December and the FIFA Intercontinental Final. With the team already stricken with so many injuries, Mbappe’s absence could affect their push for trophies.
What was Carlo Ancelotti’s assessment of Real Madrid’s performance against Atalanta?
Ancelotti praised his team’s “complete display,” highlighting their effectiveness in attack and resilience in defense despite challenges during the match.
