French superstar Kylian Mbappé is set to lead Real Madrid’s frontline against Barcelona on Sunday — exactly one year after enduring a nightmare debut El Clásico at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Mbappé, who joined Madrid last season, struggled in that infamous 4-0 home defeat, where he was caught offside eight times and had two goals disallowed. Despite a difficult start to life in Spain, he ended the campaign in spectacular form, scoring 44 goals and claiming the La Liga Golden Boot.

This season, the 25-year-old has been in exceptional form, netting 15 goals in 12 matches across all competitions. Although he failed to score against Juventus last week, he remains Madrid’s most dangerous attacking weapon.

Manager Xabi Alonso has praised Mbappé’s development and composure, noting visible progress in his positioning and movement.

“I’m not worried that he didn’t score,” Alonso said. “He had chances and was offside by millimetres. These are fine details that can be trained and improved — and he’s doing exactly that.”

Statistics back up the coach’s claim — Mbappé has reduced his offside frequency this season, averaging 0.78 per match, down from 0.93 last year. His discipline was on full display in Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Villarreal, where he remained onside throughout.

Since that initial setback, Mbappé has turned the tide against Barcelona, scoring five goals in three meetings last season — including a hat-trick in La Liga and crucial goals in both the Copa del Rey and Supercopa finals.

Sunday’s encounter offers Mbappé the perfect stage for redemption — a chance to reaffirm his star status at the Bernabéu and help Real Madrid solidify their grip at the top of La Liga.