Kylian Mbappe is facing a “minimum ten-match ban” after receiving a red card during the La Liga clash between Real Madrid and Alaves, Keith Hackett has claimed.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that the 26-year-old “put the career of his opponent at risk” and should be made an example of by the Spanish authorities despite his name and reputation.
However, any ban would likely only cover domestic competitions, meaning Mbappe will be available for Real Madrid’s Champions League clash with Arsenal on 16 April.
Mikel Arteta’s team ran out 3-0 winners in the first leg, but Real Madrid are hopeful of an all-time great comeback given their European pedigree at the Bernabeu.
In their return to league action, Carlo Ancelotti’s side won 1-0 while Arsenal drew 1-1 with Brentford as both clubs rested players, and all eyes are now on the second leg.
Kylian Mbappe faces extended ban after ‘brutal’ red-card challenge
Mbappe’s foul was initially awarded a yellow card before VAR intervention saw the referee overturn what should have been a straightforward decision.
Footage emerging after the game showed the Madrid forward had stamped into the challenge with no intention of playing the ball, threatening to break his opponent’s leg.
Hackett was left stunned by Mbappe’s challenge, labelling it “brutal” and a “cowardly act” as he called for the striker to be handed a ten-game ban.
This would be a season-ending punishment for the forward domestically, with just eight games left to play across all competitions in which the ban would stand.
As a result, Mbappe could end his first season at Real Madrid trophyless as Barcelona lead the league, while the Copa del Rey will be decided by an El Classico final.
Keith Hackett rages as Mbappe footage emerges from Real Madrid
In England, Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts and West Ham star Mohammed Kudus were both handed extended bans for acts of violent conduct.
Now, Hackett has called on Spanish officials to show the same level of punishment regardless of the Frenchman’s superstar status.
“That is a very bad challenge that fully deserved the red card he received,” he told Football Insider.
“He put the career of his opponent at risk, the action was one of sheer brutality.
“I hope the authorities will demonstrate that there is no room in the game for this cowardly act.
“I hope, despite his name and reputation, that he is given a minimum ten-match ban.”
Following a frustrating night at the Emirates in midweek, Mbappe’s temper boiled over and he was rightly dismissed for what was a shocking foul.
Now, he will have to readjust as the focus turns once again to a huge night of Champions League football at the Bernabeu where he will be expected to be among the stars.
Jude Bellingham took to social media following the game to insist the tie is “not over yet”, as the Madrid stars believe they can turn the first-leg result on its head.
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The post Exclusive: Kylian Mbappe faces ‘minimum ten-match ban’ ahead of Arsenal showdown appeared first on Football Insider.
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