News Focus
- Kylian Mbappe returns from muscle injury during Real Madrid’s 2-0 win against Real Oviedo
- French star faces hostile whistles from Bernabeu crowd after missing El Clasico
- Player reveals coach Álvaro Arbeloa ranks him fourth in the attacking pecking order
- Mbappe defends club president Florentino Pérez amid recent criticism
Kylian Mbappe has finally spoken publicly about the growing tension at Real Madrid. The French international made his first appearance in weeks during Thursday’s 2-0 victory over Real Oviedo, entering the pitch as a second-half substitute following a muscle injury.
However, his return was met with a frosty reception. Sections of the Bernabeu crowd directed loud whistles and jeers towards the forward, unhappy with his recent absence from the squad during the El Clasico defeat.
Speaking to reporters in the mixed zone after the final whistle, Mbappe accepted the criticism with calm. “It is unfortunate to miss El Clasico because I enjoy that fixture and I usually find the net,” he stated. “But the whistling is simply part of life. You cannot alter the views of upset supporters. This is how they share their feelings, and you must not take it to heart. Throughout my career, I have faced this before. It comes with being a Real Madrid player, particularly when you are a high-profile figure.”
The former Paris Saint-Germain striker explained that the club had given him permission to be away from Madrid during the Barcelona match. He noted that other squad members were also absent, but acknowledged that fans have the right to express themselves.
The most striking revelation came when Mbappe discussed his squad status. He confirmed that coach Álvaro Arbeloa has placed him behind three other attackers in the selection hierarchy. “You should ask the manager about the decision,” Mbappe said. “I felt prepared to start the match, but that is his choice. He informed me that I am the fourth attacker in the group.”
He listed Vinícius Júnior, Mastantuono and Gonzalo García as the players currently ahead of him. Despite the demotion, Mbappe insisted he bears no grudge against Arbeloa. “I cannot be angry with him. You must respect the coach’s vision because every manager has their own philosophy. My task is to train hard and prove I deserve to start ahead of Vini, Mastantuono and Gonzalo.”
Mbappe also offered strong support for under-fire president Florentino Pérez. “The president is the finest in the world and the greatest in this club’s history,” he declared. “The treatment he has received has been unfair. People should remember his achievements. It is a privilege to have him leading the club.”