Mbappé on boos, backs Vinicius and discusses Xabi Alonso’s departure | OneFootball

This Monday (19th), Kylian Mbappé from Real Madrid gave an interview and commented on the boos received during the 2-0 victory against Levante last Saturday, as well as on Xabi Alonso's departure. The forward was straightforward in defending teammates and acknowledging the tense moment the club is experiencing.  

Boos at the Bernabéu

Mbappé showed understanding towards the fans but regretted the individual criticisms.

“I understand the fans. Before being a player, I also booed when I wasn't happy. The only way they have to show something is this. But I didn't like that some were booed more than others. The blame is on the whole team. We have the character to change this. The fans are angry, but they are with us,” he said.

Support for Vinicius

He also defended Bellingham and Vinicius, the main targets of the fans' boos.

“It's not Vinicius' fault if we don't play as we usually do. The responsibility is on the entire squad. Fans can't choose one player to boo alone.”

Mbappé emphasized the Brazilian's human side and praised him, both personally and professionally.

“Vini is a human being. It's normal for this to affect him. He's a great player and an incredible person. We need to protect him better. Me too. He will never be alone at Real Madrid.”

Xabi Alonso and the coaching change

The Frenchman rejected the narrative that Xabi Alonso failed at the club for not winning any trophies.

“Saying Xabi didn't succeed at Madrid isn't true. He left before the titles were decided. He will be a great coach. I have a spectacular relationship with him and wish him the best. Now we have another coach and we need to help him.”

Regarding having talked to the former coach after the dismissal, Mbappé confirmed.

“Yes, I spoke with him when I heard the news. I wanted to support him. It's not for me to say if it's fair or unfair. Football is like that.”

Pressure, travel, and commitment

Mbappé denied that he forced himself to play in the 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Super Cup to try to save Xabi's job.

“I travel because I want to play every game. That's how I am. We made a plan to return in the Super Cup. I was sad watching the game against Atleti from afar, but supporting is also important.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.