The representatives of Kylian Mbappé have responded to criticism regarding the behaviour of the Real Madrid forward during his injury recovery, labeling the attacks as an “overinterpretation” and asserting that his recovery schedule is under “strict supervision by the club.”
Mbappé sustained a hamstring injury in Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Real Betis on April 24 and has been sidelined since. Some fans have expressed their displeasure upon seeing images of him vacationing in Paris and Sardinia recently.
The player returned to Madrid on Sunday night, coinciding with his teammates’ 2-0 victory over Espanyol, a match that kept the LaLiga title race alive for another week. He has since returned to training at the club’s Valdebebas facility.
In response to the growing criticism from Madrid’s media, Mbappé’s representatives provided a statement to the news agency AFP on Tuesday, stating, “Part of the criticism stems from an exaggerated interpretation of elements related to a recovery period that is strictly overseen by the club, and it does not accurately represent Kylian’s dedication and day-to-day efforts for the team.”
Coach Álvaro Arbeloa also stood up for Mbappé when questioned about his behaviour on Sunday. He stated, “All planning regarding injured players is managed by Real Madrid’s medical staff, who control when players need to be at Valdebebas. During their free time, players can choose how to spend it … I have no doubts about my players’ commitment.”
Mbappé is currently the top scorer in LaLiga with 24 goals this season, in addition to 15 in the Champions League, but he is approaching the conclusion of his second consecutive season without winning a major trophy since joining Madrid in 2024.
This season has proven challenging for Madrid, with coach Xabi Alonso dismissed in January and replaced by Arbeloa.
The team currently sits second in LaLiga, trailing leaders Barcelona by 11 points as they head into the final four games, needing a victory in Sunday’s Clásico to prevent their rivals from clinching the championship.
Arbeloa noted on Sunday that Mbappé’s fitness would be evaluated ahead of the match at Camp Nou, although initial assessments indicated that his recovery would take additional time.