Even though Real Madrid defeated Deportivo Alavés 1-0 on Sunday night in the 31st round of La Liga, Kylian Mbappé’s startling red card stole the show. The controversy surrounding the French superstar’s ejection for a risky challenge prior to halftime has generated intense debate throughout Spain.
Davide Ancelotti, Carlo Ancelotti’s son and assistant coach, started the game from the bench because his father was on a touchline ban. Following the arduous triumph, Davide addressed the media and didn’t hold back when they enquired about the contentious Mbappé incident.
During his press conference after the game, Davide stated, “It was just a moment of frustration.” “Kylian is not a boy who uses violence.” He instantly apologised after realising that what he had done was incorrect. He was pushed over the line, nevertheless, by the quantity of kicks and fouls he received in the first half.
Following a VAR intervention, the player was sent off in the 37th minute. Mbappé lunged in with his studs up, clearly annoyed by Alavés’ constant fouling. The referee had no choice but to dismiss him due to the intent and seriousness of the challenge, even if he did not cause any injuries.
Davide provided an honest assessment of the striker’s mental state without condoning the behaviour. He clarified, “These things happen when you’re targeted all game.” “Yes, he reacted badly, but anyone who has competed at this level knows how annoying it is when the most technically proficient players aren’t protected by referees.”
Real Madrid remained firm even though they were down to ten men. The victory was secured by a goal in the second half, which also kept Los Blancos in the running for the championship. With a crucial UEFA Champions League quarterfinal matchup against Arsenal on Wednesday, Davide acknowledged that the win was essential.
He went on, “It wasn’t an easy match.” With everything on the line, we were very anxious, but this victory provides us a boost. This group is prepared, but we are aware that Wednesday is a completely different level.
In a season full of expectations, the assistant coach, who has gradually become a more outspoken presence in the Madrid locker room, also considered the strain of juggling both La Liga and the Champions League. “They’re both challenging. La Liga requires consistency to win. Moments of genius and a little bit of luck are necessary for the Champions League. We’re pursuing both because we want both.
He also provided updates on Dani Ceballos, who returned to the squad after injury but was used sparingly. He did well in his training this week. His change was made more strategically to slow down the pace. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, he will be crucial in the middle of the week.
Davide was candid when questioned about the unsettling shouts, which included threats of murder, that were directed against Marco Asensio by a segment of the crowd. It’s not acceptable. It reflects a sad reality about some fans. The referee’s responsibility is to halt the game and enforce rules, but we need to improve as a society. This shouldn’t occur.
He also addressed his own role in Real Madrid’s technical staff. Everything has been quite natural. Two years ago, when my father had COVID, he handed me responsibility. He trusts me, and that’s all the confidence I need. I’m here today because of him.”
The emotional night ended with Davide thanking the players for their resilience. With Carlo Ancelotti watching from the stands, his son proved he could steer the team through a stormy night — both on the pitch and in the headlines.
Meanwhile, questions swirl around the extent of Mbappé’s suspension. A standard one-match ban seems unlikely, with La Liga’s disciplinary committee expected to weigh the severity of the challenge and the VAR footage. Real Madrid will be hoping their star doesn’t miss the Arsenal clash — though UEFA would have to enforce any European ban separately.
This isn’t the first time Mbappé has let emotions get the better of him in a high-pressure environment. But as Davide emphasized, the club sees this as a teachable moment, not a condemnation. “He’s a competitor. He wants to win. He needs to channel that differently.”
While Mbappé’s red card made headlines, Real Madrid’s gritty defensive display was perhaps the more significant story. Antonio Rüdiger and Aurélien Tchouaméni were immense in closing out the final minutes with a man down.
The result keeps Madrid within striking distance of the league leaders, and the dressing room remains united. “We don’t dwell,” Davide said with a smile. “The next game is the most important.”
Back in the Spanish capital, all eyes are now on Wednesday night’s showdown against Arsenal. Will Mbappé be available? Can Real Madrid shake off the red card drama and keep their Champions League dream alive?
One thing’s clear — the Ancelotti family continues to write its own chapter in Real Madrid’s illustrious history, and Davide’s voice is growing louder with every passing game.
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