Mbappé Returns to Boost Real Madrid's Final Clash

Mbappé's return

Good news for Real Madrid is the return of Kylian Mbappé to the lineup, bolstering Los Blancos’ attacking arsenal. Mbappé has shaken off an ankle injury and will be back in the squad for the final​, providing a significant injection of pace and firepower.

The French superstar has an excellent record against Barcelona - seven goals in six competitive appearances in his career so far​ - which underscores his potential to impact this match. Along with Mbappé, left-back Ferland Mendy is fit again after over a month out and is expected to start, shoring up Madrid’s defense on the flank. Real Madrid’s expected XI is near full-strength in attack, featuring Mbappé supported by Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham in advanced roles​.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti will be relieved to have these key players back, as their presence adds speed and directness that was lacking in recent Clásico defeats.

Betting implications: Mbappé’s return improves Real Madrid’s odds of scoring and winning. His proven ability to trouble Barcelona’s defense (including a hat-trick against them in the past) makes an “anytime goalscorer” bet on Mbappé appealing​ and it strengthens the case for backing Real Madrid to find the net at least once.

The over/under on total goals may tick higher with Mbappé and Vinícius both available to run at Barcelona’s back line. Real Madrid’s win probability in the eyes of bettors also inches up – what was an underdog scenario now appears more balanced. In fact, some analysts favor Real to lift the trophy partly due to Mbappé’s game-changing influence​, so punters seeking value might look at the Madrid win or draw-no-bet markets given this boost.