Tensions are reportedly rising behind the scenes at Real Madrid.
Flashpoints involving senior players, including Kylian Mbappe, have further upset the atmosphere since last month’s Champions League elimination by Bayern Munich. These incidents continue to affect the team’s preparations for a decisive Clasico on Sunday.
Mbappe’s Training Ground Flare-Up
Mbappe was involved in a flare-up with a coach during a training exercise. Sources said the Frenchman spoke angrily and in insulting terms towards the member of staff, who was acting as an assistant referee on the sidelines of the match and had called him offside.
The incident occurred before the trip to play Real Betis on April 24.
Mbappe’s conduct reportedly did not go down well with many around Madrid. Several people at the club and close to it (including staff members and representatives of other players) criticised the player, as well as Madrid, for not taking a firmer stance.
Rudiger’s Heated Argument and Apology
The first incident came when Antonio Rudiger was involved in a heated argument with another first-team player in the dressing rooms at Real Madrid’s training ground in April.
Details of what happened were confirmed to The Athletic by several sources who said the confrontation was instigated by Rudiger. The 33-year-old Germany international later apologised for his actions.
This past Friday, he invited his team-mates and their families to lunch.
Mbappe’s Trip to Italy Under Scrutiny
Beyond the incident with the coach in training last month, the 27-year-old Frenchman has also been criticised internally over a trip to Italy with his partner.
Mbappe is recovering from the hamstring injury he suffered in that game at Betis on April 24 and was given some days off last week. He arrived back in the Spanish capital on Sunday evening, shortly before kick-off in Madrid’s away match at Espanyol, where Vinicius Jr’s two goals settled a 2-0 win.
Many supporters thought Mbappe should not have taken a break with the team going through a difficult time. It has become a hot topic.
In his post-match press conference, Arbeloa was asked about him on three occasions.
“In their free time, each player does what they see fit, and I don’t get involved in that,” the 43-year-old manager said.
Such cases are not uncommon in elite football, and there is no suggestion Rudiger or Mbappe has faced any internal punishment. However, the incidents have contributed to a worsening of the mood around Madrid and should also be considered notable for that reason.
Real Madrid were approached for comment for this article — as were Rudiger and Mbappe’s representatives.