Real Madrid took on Alaves in La Liga this weekend which Los Blancos narrowly escaped with a one goal win. The game was definitely not the best for Carlo Ancelotti's men who, despite all the promises and hype about the return game against Arsenal, couldn't display much promise against a relegation threatened Alaves.
One of the game's major highlights was Kylian Mbappe. After a horrible challenge on Antonio Blanco, he was sent out with a straight red card, and rightfully so. The tackle was not only terrible, but also uncalculated and unnecessary. Nothing needed the Frenchman to move so recklessly, and hence the red card was entirely justified.
Though Mbappe was seen apologizing to Blanco following the game, there were demands for him to be banned for a lengthy amount of time from the competition. Earlier sources suggested that he might be punished for up to four games, perhaps ruling him out of the Copa Del Rey final against Barcelona.
However, Cope has since stated that he can avoid a heavier punishment by receiving only a one-game suspension. But this has sparked a worry in the minds of many fans: would Mbappe be punished for the Champions League second leg against Arsenal.
Mbappe will not be suspended and will play against Arsenal
There were some concerns over Mbappe's availability on Wednesday following his red card against Alaves, but there is no reason for them because cards received in domestic games and leagues are not tallied for European cups.
Mbappe's red card was obtained in La Liga, a tournament not overseen by UEFA, therefore his alleged one-game suspension will have no bearing on his appearance against Arsenal.
This implies that the ban will only apply to the next La Liga game against Athletic Club, which is next weekend. Until then, Mbappe is entirely protected and able to excel against Arsenal.
The French striker has done well for Los Blancos thus far, and much more is expected of him this time. Overcoming a three-goal deficit will be difficult, but Mbappe is no ordinary talent either. He has already demonstrated on the greatest stages, like as the Champions League knockout rounds and the FIFA World Cup final 2022, what he is capable of when his team struggles collectively.
On his best days, Mbappe is by far the world's greatest striker. The only thing he needs to do is get enough rest and take the chances he missed out on in the first leg.