Kylian Mbappé is on track to feature in the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. The French star picked up a minor sprain in last week’s clash with Arsenal but, barring any setbacks, is expected to be fit for the decisive match.

While Mbappé’s return offers a major boost, the main concern for Carlo Ancelotti lies at left-back. With Eduardo Camavinga ruled out for three months following his injury against Getafe, Fran García is currently the only fully fit option for the position.

However, there is growing optimism regarding Ferland Mendy, who has been sidelined for six weeks with an injury sustained in the Champions League tie against Atlético Madrid. On Thursday morning, Mendy took a key step in his recovery by training with the ball alongside teammates for the first time since the setback.

The coaching staff hopes that both Mendy and David Alaba will be included in the squad list to be announced on Friday. While Alaba did not train with the group today, his condition hasn’t worsened, and he could rejoin the team for the final preparations.

Ancelotti has previously described Mendy as the best defender in the world and will wait until the last moment to determine if he can rely on him for the final. If Mendy is unavailable, Fran García will step in, having already been selected to start against Getafe.

The decision is a crucial one, particularly with the threat of Lamine Yamal on the right wing. Stopping the young Barça talent could be decisive in determining the outcome of the final.

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