BREAKING: Real Madrid Striker Mbappé Criticizes Ancelotti’s Decision to Play Controversial Defender in Copa del Rey Final

In the aftermath of Real Madrid’s 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, striker Kylian Mbappé has publicly criticized manager Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to field a particular Barcelona defender, who he claims caused significant problems for Real Madrid’s attack.​

The Match and Mbappé’s Performance

The final, held on April 26, 2025, saw Barcelona clinch the title with a late goal in extra time. Mbappé, who played the full 120 minutes, was visibly frustrated by the defensive efforts of Barcelona’s center-back, Jules Koundé. Koundé’s exceptional performance in neutralizing both Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior was widely acknowledged, with Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti later praising Koundé as “arguably the best defender in Spain.”​

Mbappé’s Criticism of Ancelotti’s Decision

Following the match, Mbappé expressed his frustration with Ancelotti’s decision to play Koundé for the full duration of the game. He stated, “I have warned Carlo Ancelotti about that particular player; he refused to bench him. He keeps causing problems to the teams. He cost Real Madrid three points and the Copa del Rey. Barcelona and Ancelotti played him full time.”​

Mbappé’s comments highlight the striker’s belief that Koundé’s presence on the field was a significant factor in Real Madrid’s inability to secure victory.​

Ancelotti’s Response

Manager Carlo Ancelotti has yet to publicly respond to Mbappé’s criticism. However, he previously acknowledged Koundé’s exceptional performance, stating, “The way he pocketed Vinícius Jr and Mbappé yesterday needs to be studied. I’ve been hearing so much about him, but last night I witnessed it myself. He’s arguably the best defender that we have in Spain now, no doubt about that.”​

Implications for Real Madrid

The defeat has left Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by five points in La Liga, with only five matches remaining. Additionally, the team faces potential suspensions for key players, including Antonio Rüdiger, who was sent off for throwing an ice bag at the referee during the match. Rüdiger’s actions have been widely condemned, with former German internationals Lothar Matthäus and Dietmar Hamann calling for significant disciplinary measures. Rüdiger has since issued a public apology for his behavior. ​talkSPORTDiario AS

Conclusion

The fallout from the Copa del Rey final continues to affect Real Madrid. Mbappé’s criticism of Ancelotti’s decision to play Koundé for the full match underscores the challenges the team faces as they look to regroup and focus on their remaining fixtures. With key players potentially sidelined and tensions running high, Real Madrid’s ability to recover and perform in their upcoming matches will be crucial to their season’s success.