Kylian Mbappé and Real Madrid, consequences after Arbeloa clash | OneFootball

After starting on the bench in a 2-0 win over Oviedo on Thursday, Kylian Mbappé publicly challenged Alvaro Arbeloa and, by implication, parts of the Real Madrid dressing room, sharpening issues the club must confront in the coming weeks, according to L'Équipe.

Mbappé said he felt fully fit and ready to start, yet was told he was the fourth forward for the night, behind Gonzalo, Vinicius and Franco. His words also reflected frustration over Xabi Alonso’s January departure, perceived medical missteps and the team’s disappointing results.

Arbeloa responded that he alone chooses who plays, regardless of reputation, and that those unhappy should wait for the next coach. Despite speculation he could restrict Mbappé’s minutes, he stated he plans to start him against Sevilla on Sunday at 19:00, calling him the first-choice striker.

Mbappé wants games to regain rhythm before the World Cup and to defend his Pichichi lead, 24 league goals to Vedat Muriqi’s 22. He added that what hurt most was the idea he had not wanted to play while injured.

He was heavily whistled on Thursday and the reaction could grow after his comments, which some may see as putting himself ahead of the collective. Many team-mates consider him too individualistic and have sided with Vinicius, viewed as more unifying. Though relations with the Brazilian are good, Mbappé is increasingly isolated.

Restoring harmony after Arbeloa’s interim and getting Mbappé flourishing will fall to the next coach. The choice is expected to be made by president Florentino Pérez. Internally, some favour separating Mbappé or Vinicius due to their fit, but a Mbappé exit, two seasons into a deal to 2029, appears highly improbable.

Source: L'Équipe