Kylian Mbappe’s return to action for Real Madrid against Real Oviedo on Thursday night was overshadowed by a public dispute with manager Alvaro Arbeloa, as the 27-year-old forward claimed he was the club’s “fourth striker” in the pecking order.
Mbappe, making his first appearance after missing two matches with a hamstring injury, entered the fray as a 69th-minute substitute in Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory. Despite providing an assist for Jude Bellingham’s second goal, his post-match comments ignited a fresh wave of scrutiny regarding his commitment to the Spanish giants.
The French international’s re-introduction to the pitch was met with jeers from the home crowd, a reaction fueled by a controversial trip to Italy with his girlfriend while recovering from his injury. Reports from SportBible indicated that some Real Madrid chiefs were unhappy with the timing of the trip, particularly ahead of the crucial El Clásico encounter with Barcelona, though Mbappe maintains the club had granted him permission.
Mbappe’s controversial return
Speaking after the Real Oviedo win, Mbappe was candid about his perceived standing within the squad. “I haven’t played because I’m the fourth striker in the squad for the coach. I accept and play the time they give me… I was there to be a starter. I’m not angry with the coach, you always have to respect the decision of a coach. Work hard to be a starter again,” he stated, adding that he needed to be better than teammates Gonzalo, Mastantuono, and Vini to secure a starting spot.
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The striker’s comments also hinted at broader issues, noting, “I prefer to talk here. There are people who don’t talk and I look at the press to know what they think and I prefer to talk here, it’s clearer.” This sentiment suggests underlying tensions that have recently seen Mbappe’s commitment to the club questioned, with an online petition titled ‘Mbappe Out’ reportedly garnering millions of signatures.
Arbeloa clarifies selection
Manager Alvaro Arbeloa swiftly responded to Mbappe’s claims during his post-match press conference, refuting the idea that he had labeled the forward as his fourth-choice attacker. “I did not tell Mbappé that he is my fourth attacker. Four days ago, he was out of El Clásico; he wasn’t even on the bench. So today, it’s only logical that he’s on the bench. I have no problem with anyone. I’m the coach and I decide who plays and who doesn’t,” Arbeloa asserted.
Despite the off-field drama, Mbappe’s on-field performance this season has been prolific, with the forward having scored 41 goals across all competitions. However, the latest public exchange between player and coach, coupled with fan discontent and the lingering shadow of his injury recovery trip, ensures that the spotlight on Mbappe at Real Madrid remains intensely bright.
Sources: www.sportbible.com
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