Kylian Mbappe Poised For Return In Real Madrid's Intercontinental Cup Final Against Pachuca

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Kylian Mbappe is expected to make his return when Real Madrid takes on Pachuca in the Intercontinental Cup final on Wednesday. Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Mbappe will play unless there are any last-minute fitness issues. Mbappe missed the recent 3-3 draw with Rayo Vallecano after limping off during Madrid's 3-2 Champions League victory over Atalanta.

Mbappe's start at Santiago Bernabeu has been mixed, with 12 goals in 22 matches across all competitions. However, some criticism has emerged due to his goals coming from an expected goals (xG) figure of 16.25. Only Monaco's Breel Embolo has underperformed more significantly, with three goals from a 7.7 xG. Additionally, Vinicius Junior playing in Mbappe's preferred left-wing position has raised questions about team balance.

Ancelotti expressed optimism about Mbappe's availability for the match in Qatar, provided he remains fit. "Yesterday he trained well, with good feelings," Ancelotti stated during Tuesday's pre-match press conference. He added that today's training would be crucial for assessing any risks. "If he's fine, talking to the doctors, he'll play," he said.

Ancelotti could achieve a significant milestone by winning his 15th major trophy with Real Madrid, surpassing Miguel Munoz as the club's most successful coach. He acknowledged the importance of this achievement: "It's something important... a symptom of having done a good job." Ancelotti expressed pride in being compared to Munoz and other esteemed coaches who have led Real Madrid.

Despite these potential achievements, Ancelotti and Madrid have faced challenges this season. They suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat against Barcelona in El Clasico and recently dropped to third place in LaLiga while struggling in the Champions League standings.

Rumours have circulated about Xabi Alonso potentially replacing Ancelotti as coach. However, Ancelotti dismissed these speculations confidently: "I haven't lost it, of course not." He acknowledged that difficult moments occur in football but emphasised resilience and competitiveness for the remainder of the season.

The Italian coach reassured fans of his control over the team: "I can assure you that I have not lost control." He remains focused on guiding Real Madrid through challenging times and is determined to lead them to success in upcoming matches.

Madrid aims to secure victory against Pachuca despite facing obstacles along the way. Both teams have performed well to reach this stage, and Ancelotti is eager to bring home another trophy for Los Blancos amidst ongoing challenges this season.