News Focus
- Arbeloa denies telling Mbappe he ranks as the fourth forward choice
- Mbappe watched the 2-0 win over Real Oviedo from the bench
- The coach asserts full control over team selection
- Mbappe is set to start the upcoming clash against Sevilla
- Arbeloa admits he has faced similar issues with other squad members
Real Madrid secured a 2-0 victory against Real Oviedo on Thursday evening. However, the result is not the main talking point among supporters. Instead, fans are discussing the public disagreement between manager Alvaro Arbeloa and star forward Kylian Mbappe.
Mbappe spoke to reporters after the match. He claimed Arbeloa told him he ranks as the club’s fourth attacking choice. The French international named Vinicius Junior, Gonzalo Garcia and Franco Mastantuono as the players ahead of him in the pecking order.
Arbeloa strongly rejected this version of events. He addressed the media and denied making the statement. “I would like to have four forwards. I do not have four forwards available. I did not say those words to him,” Arbeloa explained.
The coach defended his position firmly. He made it clear he controls team selection. “I decide. I am the coach,” he stated. “If I do not put him in the starting eleven, he cannot play.”
Arbeloa revealed he spoke with Mbappe before the match. He suggested the player misunderstood their conversation. The manager explained his decision to rest Mbappe. He pointed to the upcoming clash against Sevilla on Sunday.
“Today was not a matter of life or death. We have an important match on Sunday. He will certainly be the first striker for that game,” Arbeloa said. He added that Mbappe would lead the attack again in seven days.
Arbeloa said he understands unhappy players. However, he called his choice logical and sensible. He refused to take any risks with his key player. The Spaniard also admitted he faces problems with other squad members. He confirmed reports of dressing room tensions.
“This has happened with many other players, not just Kylan,” Arbeloa said. “The circumstances are different from previous coaches at this club. I have a clear conscience. I will do what I think is best until my final day here.”
Reporters asked if he feels the players show ingratitude. Arbeloa replied that he understands player mentality. He played at the highest level himself. He would not change any of his actions or words.