There are claims that Kylian Mbappé (27, Real Madrid), who made a threatening, violent tackle, could face a 10-match ban.

Keith Hackett (81), former head of the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and a former referee for FIFA, stated in an interview with 'Football Insider' on the 14th that Mbappé is at risk of facing a 'minimum 10-match suspension.'

Mbappé started in the away match against Deportivo Alavés in the 31st round of the 2024-2025 La Liga on the 13th, which the team won 1-0. However, in the 38th minute of the first half, while the team was leading 1-0, Mbappé made a rather intentional tackle on opposing player Antonio Blanco.

Mbappé went in late with his studs after Blanco kicked the ball, and he kicked Blanco's right ankle. Blanco lost his balance and fell with his ankle twisted.

Initially, the referee showed Mbappé a yellow card. However, soon after, the video assistant referee (VAR) was activated, and after an on-field review, the main referee canceled the yellow card and showed a red card instead. Mbappé had to finish the match with a direct ejection.

In the released VAR footage, it appears that Mbappé extended his foot towards Blanco's leg rather than the ball from the start. The moment Blanco's ankle twisted due to Mbappé's kick was captured. There are claims on social media that it was a deliberate violent tackle by Mbappé.

Consequently, Mbappé, who made a reckless and unreasonable tackle, may not only miss the next match but could also face a longer suspension period depending on the referee's report. Some are reporting that he may not play in more than three matches.

In this case, although Mbappé will not be affected in participating in the UEFA Champions League, he will also miss the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on the 27th, which will take place during El Clásico. Additionally, he will miss the remaining eight league matches, impacting the title race.

Hackett, outraged by the video of Mbappé, said, 'Mbappé committed an act that threatens the career of an opposing player, and Spain's authorities must set an example, regardless of his name or reputation.'

Hackett further characterized Mbappé's tackle as 'a brutal and cowardly act' and called for a 10-match suspension. He emphasized that no matter how much of a star he is, he should not be pardoned.

Hackett raised his voice, stating, 'It was a clear red card offense. It was a foul bad enough to put an opposing player's career at risk,' and added, 'This was pure brutality and cowardice.'

'Regardless of any fame or name, I hope a minimum 10-match suspension is imposed,' he pointed out, 'such acts should not exist in football.'

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