Real Madrid faces Atletico without injured Mbappé on Sunday

Kylian Mbappé's hamstring injury will prevent him from participating in Real Madrid's crucial La Liga match against Atletico Madrid. This injury is particularly significant as it marks the first time the star striker will miss a major domestic game since his transfer to Madrid. The club announced that he will be out for an unspecified duration, raising concerns about the team's attacking capabilities in his absence. Manager Carlo Ancelotti is now tasked with filling the void left by Mbappé. One potential solution is to start Endrick, an 18-year-old newcomer who has shown promise with two goals in limited playing time. Alternatively, Ancelotti could revert to a 4-4-2 formation, which was successful last season, by adding another midfielder to the lineup. Atletico Madrid, currently in third place in the league, poses a significant challenge, having previously defeated Madrid in their last domestic encounter. The team is also bolstered by new signings, including Julián Álvarez, who scored a late winner in their last match. This derby is crucial for both teams as they vie for points in a tightly contested league. As Real Madrid sits four points behind league leaders Barcelona, the outcome of this match could have implications for their title aspirations. The absence of Mbappé may shift the dynamics of the game, making it essential for Ancelotti to make strategic decisions to maintain their competitive edge.