Kylian Mbappe has ignited fresh tension at Real Madrid after delivering a series of explosive comments following Los Blancos’ 2-0 victory over Real Oviedo at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Although Madrid secured a comfortable win thanks to goals from Gonzalo Garcia and Jude Bellingham, the atmosphere inside the stadium remained tense after the recent El Clasico defeat that handed Barcelona the La Liga title.
Mbappe, who recently returned from a hamstring injury, started the match on the bench and was introduced during the second half.
However, the France captain was met with loud boos from sections of the home crowd and continued to receive whistles throughout his appearance.
Despite the hostile reception, the 27-year-old still managed to provide the assist for Bellingham’s late goal, though he failed to extend his impressive tally of 24 league goals this season.
Nevertheless, it was Mbappe’s post-match comments that immediately stole the spotlight.
Speaking openly to reporters, the French forward appeared frustrated with his current role under manager Alvaro Arbeloa.
“I prefer to speak here, with my own mouth. That way it’s clearer. My only responsibility is to play well and give everything for the badge,” said Mbappe.
When asked about being considered “fourth-choice” in attack, Mbappe responded bluntly.
“Ask the manager. What do you want me to say?
“I was ready to start, but it’s his decision. I can’t be angry with the manager. You always have to respect a manager’s opinion. I’ll just work hard in training and matches, hoping to become a starter.”
Furthermore, Mbappe reflected on Madrid’s disappointing campaign and admitted the team lost its identity during the second half of the season.
“We started the season well, in La Liga, in the Champions League … but we lost it in the second half [of the campaign]. And it hurts a lot, because I feel we had a clear playing style and we let it slip away.”
Meanwhile, the former Paris Saint-Germain star also addressed his relationship with current coach Arbeloa and former boss Xabi Alonso.
“I have a great relationship with Xabi [Alonso], he’s going to be a great coach. But that’s in the past and we have to look ahead.
“I have no problem with Arbeloa. You have to respect him. You have to accept the coach’s philosophy, and I have to do my best to play ahead of Vini, Gonzalo and Mastantuono.”
Mbappe even joked about recent comments made by Arbeloa when questioned by reporters.
“I have French TV, I don’t have Spanish TV at home. So I don’t know what he said!”
The latest remarks are expected to intensify speculation surrounding Mbappe’s future, especially after growing fan frustration during a turbulent season for Real Madrid both on and off the pitch.
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