Real Madrid News
Ancelotti has doubts about Real Madrid superstar’s physical condition ahead of Copa del Rey final
There is much anxiety at Real Madrid as they approach the Copa Del Rey final against Barcelona tomorrow.
Although Los Blancos, in their squad, have been able to include both Ferland Mendy and Kylian Mbappe, they are far from their about the fitness levels of these players.
Ancelotti worried about Mbappe’s fitness
According to Radio MARCA, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is particularly worried about Kylian Mbappe’s fitness heading into the Copa del Rey final.
The French international had picked up a fresh injury during the second leg Champions League tie against Arsenal.
In the following game against Athletic Club, he couldn’t make an appearance both due to injury and a suspension.
But the worrying trend was that the Frenchman didn’t make it in time for the Getafe clash either. It was said at the time that this was purely a precautionary measure.
But the fact remains: this will be Mbappe’s first game since picking up an injury against Arsenal and therefore, Ancelotti has doubts as to whether or not the Frenchman can give his 100%.
Should Mbappe fail to recover his fitness, Ancelotti is expected to replace him with Dani Ceballos in the Real Madrid lineup.
Ceballos’ inclusion could see Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo possibly spearheading the Real Madrid frontline, with the midfielder acting as the additional source of creativity for Los Blancos.
Meanwhile, Lucas Vazquez is aiming to start in the right-back position, hoping to get the nod ahead of Federico Valverde, whose services could be required in midfield given his match-winning abilities.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
