The absence of Mbappe is a major setback for Madrid heading into a match that could effectively hand Barcelona the La Liga title. Hansi Flick\u2019s side enters the clash at Camp Nou with an 11-point lead over their historic rivals and needs only a draw to secure the championship with four games remaining in the season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Mbappe, who netted a hat-trick in last season\u2019s Clasico in Barcelona despite Madrid ending up on the losing side, had been racing against time to regain fitness. However, the striker was unable to complete Saturday\u2019s training session at Valdebebas and later failed a final fitness assessment on Sunday morning.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The club has decided not to risk aggravating the injury, particularly with Madrid\u2019s title hopes virtually over.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Mbappe has been one of Madrid\u2019s biggest threats against Barcelona in recent meetings, averaging a goal every 67 minutes in Cl\u00e1sico encounters. His pace, movement, and finishing ability were expected to be central to Madrid\u2019s hopes of delaying Barcelona\u2019s title celebrations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The only good news for Madrid is the return of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois from injury, and the Belgian will start at Camp Nou.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Mbappe has been one of Madrid\u2019s biggest threats against Barcelona in recent meetings, averaging a goal every 67 minutes in Cl\u00e1sico encounters. His pace, movement, and finishing ability were expected to be central to Madrid\u2019s hopes of delaying Barcelona\u2019s title celebrations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Valverde reportedly suffered cranioencephalic trauma and required stitches, while both players were fined heavily by the club. The incident has further fuelled speculation of divisions inside the Madrid dressing room and uncertainty surrounding coach Alvaro Arbeloa and his future at the club.<\/p>\r\n\r\n