Real Madrid have been dealt a significant setback ahead of their crucial El Clásico clash, with star forward Kylian Mbappé sidelined due to a thigh injury. Diagnosed with damage to the semitendinosus muscle, the injury occurred during a recent La Liga match against Real Betis. With Madrid trailing FC Barcelona by 11 points, the timing is critical. Upcoming fixtures, including a match against Espanyol, will test squad depth as both competitive and commercial pressures intensify.