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Garcia Takes Spotlight as Mbappe Out for Madrid's Betis Clash

4 January 2026

Garcia Takes Spotlight as Mbappe Out for Madrid's Betis Clash
Garcia steps in for Mbappe as Madrid host Betis at the Bernabéu

Lineup Spotlight: Garcia Steps In for Mbappe

Spanish coach Xabi Alonso announced Madrid's starting XI for the La Liga meeting with Real Betis at the Santiago Bernabéu on Matchday 19.

The key change saw Gonzalo Garcia come in to fill in for the injured Kylian Mbappe, with Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo supporting him in attack.

Madrid aim to close the gap to the league leaders after Barcelona's win in the Catalan derby against Espanyol, which widened the margin to seven points.

Lineups and goalscoring chances aside, Madrid's focus is continuing their push as the season unfolds.

Punchline 1: If Garcia halves the deficit today, we'll call it Garcia-therapy for Madrid's goalscoring crisis.

Punchline 2: And if the Bernabeu booed Mbappe's absence, well, turn up the coffee—it's going to be a long match regardless of the scoreline.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who started for Real Madrid in Mbappe's absence?

Gonzalo Garcia started as the injured Mbappe was tilting the balance.

What is the current gap to the leaders?

Barcelona lead by seven points after their derby win, with Madrid second on 42 points.

Where is the match played?

The match is at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.