Kylian Mbappé is the subject of conversation at Real Madrid these days, but not for his goal-scoring or dazzling skills. The French forward missed the club's last training session before their Copa del Rey semifinal tie against Real Sociedad, and the reason took many by surprise: a dental procedure.
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It might seem like a minor issue with no real bearing, but when it is one of the key players of the team who is absent, any absence raises questions. And in Mbappé's case, this situation is more complex than a simple dental operation. The timing of the season, Real Madrid's upcoming games, and the possibility of Endrick getting more playing time all make this situation much more intriguing than was first thought.
Strategic rest or surprise trouble?
Spanish daily Marca was one of the first to uncover that Mbappé's operation was uncomplicated, yet adequate enough to hinder him from training on Tuesday. Or else Carlo Ancelotti did not guarantee his presence in the match, but that the Frenchman was with the team and has a chance to play.
For a player who has already featured 38 times this season, some relief would probably be seen as a welcome breather. In fact, Real Madrid's schedule does not soften up, right after beating Real Sociedad they have a LaLiga clash against Betis and a Champions League game against Atlético Madrid.
If the plan is to rest Mbappé for the most important matches, his absence is justified. But if there is more behind this than appears on the surface, Madrid fans have every reason to be concerned.
Can Endrick capitalize?
Without Mbappé available, now is the opportunity for Endrick to get some valuable minutes under his belt. The Brazilian youngster, who is still settling in the team, has 402 minutes from playing 24 games, and has scored five goals. His statistics aren't wow-stats yet, but no one can dispute the potential that the young Brazilian offers.
Carlo Ancelotti had words on Endrick when discussing Mbappé's unavailability: "Mbappé is out. He had a problem with his tooth and couldn't train. Every player who travels has a chance. Endrick too."
What the coach says is not a promise of a starting role for Endrick, but it does leave him the door open to playing time. And if he does play well and comes out strong, then he might feel more confident and established in the team.
More absences and reshuffled Real Madrid
Mbappé was not the only absent player from training. Thibaut Courtois will also miss out, with Lunin playing in his place against Real Sociedad. Fede Valverde will also be rested, according to Marca.
These absent players suggest that Real Madrid may step onto the field with a different lineup, which will have a direct impact on how they perform against a strong Real Sociedad side.
If Mbappé is indeed rested, Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo will have to take on more of the load in attack. Real Sociedad will not be an outlier, however. The Basque side has been building a solid season and might look to Real Madrid's missing stars to engineer an upset.