Carlo Ancelotti announces 3 major withdrawals from the final against Barça: “It’s difficult…”

Real Madrid secured a narrow but crucial 1-0 win over Getafe on Wednesday night, thanks in large part to Arda Güler’s brilliance and a composed performance from Thibaut Courtois. But despite the three points, the mood in the Madrid camp is anything but celebratory. With just days to go before the highly anticipated Copa del Rey final against arch-rivals Barcelona, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed three key absentees for the clash in Seville.

The Italian manager, clearly disappointed, announced in his post-match press conference that David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga, and Ferland Mendy will all miss the final due to injury setbacks. It’s a major blow to the Merengue’s preparations, especially considering the high stakes involved and the lack of reliable options in defense.

David Alaba, who had been expected to start on the left side of the defense, was withdrawn at halftime against Getafe after feeling discomfort in his left leg. Ancelotti later revealed that the Austrian veteran is struggling with multiple muscular problems and that his chances of being ready for Saturday are slim to none.

Since his return from a long-term injury in January, Alaba has struggled to string together consistent performances. Wednesday’s recurrence is another frustrating setback for the 33-year-old, whose experience would have been invaluable in the final.

Worse still, Eduardo Camavinga—brought on at halftime and a likely candidate to slot into the left-back role—also went down injured in the dying moments of the game. The Frenchman was on the receiving end of a hard challenge from Getafe’s Luis Milla and tried to play on, but had to eventually be helped off.

Spanish outlet Marca has since confirmed that Camavinga suffered a torn abductor muscle, ruling him out of the Copa del Rey final. The news comes as a gut punch to Madrid fans, who have watched the 21-year-old grow into one of the team’s most versatile and dependable players this season.

“Alaba seems to have two problems with his legs. It is unlikely that they will be recovered by Saturday. They are muscle problems,” Ancelotti stated after the match. “It is unlikely that Camavinga and Alaba will be fit for Saturday.”

Adding to the injury woes, Ferland Mendy—Madrid’s regular starting left-back—has only just resumed training and is not yet match fit. Despite returning to the practice pitch, Ancelotti ruled him out of contention for the final as well.

“Fran García is the only option at left-back to face Barcelona,” the 65-year-old coach admitted. García, though energetic and promising, lacks the experience of Alaba and the versatility of Camavinga. His performance on Saturday will come under intense scrutiny against a Barça attack that remains lethal, even with their own absentees.

Indeed, Barcelona will also be without key players. Left-back Alejandro Balde and striker Robert Lewandowski are confirmed absentees for the Catalans. Balde’s absence may ease some pressure on Madrid’s weakened left flank, but Lewandowski’s unavailability won’t be much comfort if Ancelotti’s side can’t field a stable defense.

Despite the adversity, Madrid remains focused on the goal ahead. The Copa del Rey final represents a chance for silverware and a statement victory over their eternal rivals. But the challenge has grown steeper, and the team’s depth will now be truly tested.

One silver lining is the continued rise of Arda Güler. The young Turkish midfielder scored the only goal against Getafe and was a bright spot in an otherwise bruising match. His confidence and creativity may be crucial in a final where Madrid will be missing several senior figures.

Courtois, too, looked back to his best. The Belgian shot-stopper made two crucial saves late in the game to preserve Madrid’s lead. With big names out of the equation, Madrid will need every ounce of quality from players like Courtois and Güler to outshine their bitter rivals.

This match also served as a reminder of the physical toll the season has taken. Ancelotti must now not only manage tactics but also morale, as several teammates are forced to watch the final from the sidelines.

For fans, it’s a nerve-wracking build-up to a final already loaded with tension. Madrid have won their last three encounters with Barça, but doing it again under these circumstances would be a true test of Ancelotti’s tactical prowess and the squad’s mental fortitude.

Whether it’s a masterstroke from the coach, a breakout performance from a youngster, or a moment of brilliance from a superstar, something special will be needed on Saturday. With a depleted squad and high expectations, Real Madrid face one of their biggest challenges of the season—head-on.