Real Madrid forward’s entourage believes Vinicius wants to make him the ‘bad guy’ – report | OneFootball

According to explosive claims made on El Chiringuito TV, Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe’s inner circle believes Vinicius Jr. is attempting to position the French superstar as the “bad guy” within the club.

In fact, the outlet also states that Mbappe feels unhappy with the way he has been treated by current Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa.

Over recent weeks, Mbappe has repeatedly found himself at the centre of controversy.

First came the criticism surrounding his trip to Italy during his recovery period, despite the fact the outing had been authorised by the club itself. 

Then came his comments about being the “fourth-choice striker” under Arbeloa, remarks that created even more noise around his relationship with the coaching staff.

Now, attention has shifted towards the dressing room dynamic involving Vinicius.

Mbappe feels alone at Real Madrid

Mbappe’s relationship with Arbeloa is strained. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

According to the report, Mbappe’s entourage believes there is an internal battle developing between the two superstar forwards over influence, image and leadership within the squad.

The feeling growing around the club is that the coexistence between Vinicius and Mbappe has become increasingly complicated.

As explained during the programme, Mbappe’s camp believes Vinicius wants to “beat” the Frenchman in that internal rivalry and, in the process, portray him negatively publicly and privately.

As such, the relationship between both players is currently far from ideal, and one of the biggest concerns for Mbappe revolves around isolation.

Unlike several other influential figures, the French attacker has not built strong internal alliances since arriving at the club. 

Mbappe has kept his distance

Even his relationship with Vinicius is not too good. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

In fact, he has avoided creating cliques or groups within the squad, which now leaves him feeling exposed during difficult moments.

At the same time, Mbappe feels he lacks teammates willing to publicly defend him or balance the criticism aimed in his direction.

Yet, one important factor reportedly remains in his favour: the continued support of club president Florentino Perez.

However, what makes the situation more dangerous is the fragile atmosphere already existing inside the squad after a season filled with controversy, internal disagreements and managerial instability.

And in that regard, Mbappe feeling isolated will only intensify speculation surrounding the dressing room environment.