If the hosts win this match, they could secure the Spanish championship ahead of schedule.
Mbappé's participation in training sessions held at the Real Madrid base on Saturday indicated that he had recovered from the thigh muscle injury he sustained two weeks ago. However, his absence from the official lineup came as an unexpected turn.
Brahim Díaz and Gonzalo Torres were also listed in the squad. Additionally, midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni was included, even though he recently paid a fine of 500,000 euros due to a fight that broke out with teammate Federico Valverde during training.
Barcelona enters this match as the league leader and has a strong chance not only to win the encounter but also to hold onto the title. The Catalan club currently leads Real Madrid by 11 points. If they finish this game with a draw or a win, the championship will be almost guaranteed.
If Barcelona also wins the remaining four matches by the end of the season, they could tie the record for accumulating 100 points in the Spanish championship.
Mbappé's participation in El Clásico was in doubt due to a thigh muscle injury, and he faced criticism from fans for traveling to Sardinia to rest during his recovery period.
This situation also displeased coach Arbeloa. He stated that he demands even greater responsibility and dedication from the players.
"We built Real Madrid not with players who perform in suits, but with those who leave the pitch with jerseys soaked in sweat and mud, demonstrating effort and sacrifice," said Arbeloa after the victory over Espanyol.
