Kylian Mbappé has responded to criticism regarding his dedication to Real Madrid, after travelling to Sardinia with actor Ester Expósito. The trip occurred last weekend while he was recovering from a hamstring injury. Some Spanish media outlets and Real Madrid fans have questioned Mbappé’s commitment to the team ahead of their clásico match against Barcelona.
Mbappé’s representatives released a statement on Tuesday, denying any wrongdoing. The statement claimed that criticism was based on misinterpretations of his recovery, which is being supervised by the club. It also asserted that the criticism did not reflect Mbappé’s commitment and daily work for the team.
Online Petition Calls for Mbappé’s Sale
An online petition has emerged on social networks, with some Madrid fans urging others to call for Mbappé to be sold. The petition reads: “If you believe change is necessary, do not remain silent: sign this petition and defend what you believe is best for the future of the club.”
Manager’s Comments Perceived as Criticism
Photos of Mbappé and Expósito surfaced on social media as Madrid prepared for their league match against Espanyol last weekend. Real Madrid won the match 2-0. Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa stated that “each player does what they consider appropriate in their free time” and that it was “none of my business”. However, some perceived his comments as indirect criticism of Mbappé.
Mbappé has scored 41 goals in 41 matches this season, making him Madrid’s leading scorer.
Madrid’s Diminished Hopes
Real Madrid’s season has seen them eliminated from the Champions League and the Copa del Rey. They are also virtually out of contention in La Liga. They trail Barcelona by 11 points with four rounds remaining. This means the Catalan club will clinch the title if they avoid defeat on Sunday.
Mbappé’s Fitness in Doubt for El Clásico
Real Madrid have not yet confirmed whether Mbappé will be fit and available for the clásico. Spanish media reports that Mbappé went to Madrid’s training centre on a day off to continue his recovery.
- Mbappé travelled to Sardinia with actor Ester Expósito last weekend.
- An online petition is circulating, urging Madridistas to call for Mbappé to be sold.
- Real Madrid trail Barcelona by 11 points with four rounds remaining.
According to the Athletic, Mbappé was also involved in a dispute with a member of the team’s coaching staff before they faced Real Betis last month.