Mbappé could get just one game for savage leg-breaker —There’s a precedent that backs it up!

Real Madrid supporters are anxiously awaiting what could be a dramatic week for the club. On one front, Carlo Ancelotti’s team faces a do-or-die match against Arsenal this Wednesday, needing a heroic comeback to secure a place in the Champions League semifinals. On another, all eyes are on the disciplinary decision looming over Kylian Mbappé, following his violent tackle on Antonio Blanco during Sunday’s La Liga clash at Mendizorroza — an incident that resulted in a straight red card for the French forward.

Initially shown a yellow card by referee Soto Grado, Mbappé’s challenge was reviewed by VAR. Upon checking the pitch-side monitor, the official reversed his decision and issued a direct red card, citing the serious nature of the foul. The referee’s report described the expulsion as follows: “In the 38th minute, player (9) Mbappé Lottin, Kylian was sent off for the following reason: ‘For a studs-up challenge at shin level on an opponent during a contest for the ball, using excessive force.



’” The Spanish Football Federation’s Disciplinary Committee (RFEF) is expected to announce its decision this Wednesday — the same day as the crucial Arsenal match. Despite the severity of the foul, Real Madrid believes there is a strong chance Mbappé will receive only a one-match ban. The French forward apologized to Antonio Blanco immediately after the game in Vitoria, and Madrid is hopeful that precedent will play in their favor.

That precedent came just days ago, during Matchday 30 (April 6, 2025), when Mario Martín — currently on loan from Real Madrid to Real Valladolid — was also shown a straight red for a reckless challenge on Getafe’s Juan Iglesias. The referee’s report stated that Martín was expelled in first-half stoppage time "for bringing down an opponent with excessive force during a contest for the ball." Despite the dangerous nature of the foul and being a repeat offender, Martín was only suspended for one game, which he served against Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano.

In contrast, Mbappé’s red card in Mendizorroza was his first since joining Real Madrid. Mario Martín, meanwhile, has been sent off twice before this season: Given this background, Real Madrid is expecting a similar outcome for Mbappé: the minimum one-match suspension. The fact that the referee’s report emphasizes that the action occurred while contesting the ball — and no injury was caused — could work in the French striker’s favor.

However, footage of the incident paints a different picture. The sheer aggression of Mbappé’s tackle on Antonio Blanco suggests that he had little intention of playing the ball and more of causing harm — even if he expressed remorse minutes later. The final decision now rests with the disciplinary committee.

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