Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has slammed criticism of star striker Kylian Mbappe, calling the attacks ridiculous as the French captain prepares for a possible return to the pitch. Mbappe has faced intense scrutiny for choosing to spend time recovering from a left knee injury in France and Switzerland rather than remaining in Madrid. The 27-year-old suffered a hyperextension of the joint while representing France in a Nations League fixture against Turkiye on September 25.
During his rehabilitation period, Mbappe was spotted outside a Parisian nightclub and photographed riding a bicycle during his stay in Switzerland. Some supporters interpreted these activities as a deliberate snub against Mourinho, who had recently cautioned players against engaging in risky activities like skiing or cycling to prevent physical setbacks. Addressing reporters ahead of Real Madrid's La Liga fixture against Villarreal, Mourinho forcefully defended his forward.
Are these criticisms over the top? They are ridiculous, Mourinho told a Friday news conference. All the players who were obliged to be present every day for their recovery were here. Mbappe came, like the others, to undergo scans in order to be diagnosed. He then went to see a specialist in France because he has history with his knee, which we cannot ignore.
The Portuguese manager did not hold back when addressing the specific grievances raised by critics and the media regarding Mbappe's off-field activities. Problems involving football are not sufficient for you, Mourinho told reporters. Therefore, you have raised the issue of the discotheque, which in fact was not one because it was used for a private event for Fashion Week. As for the bicycle in Switzerland, it was in a hotel made up of small houses which makes them available so guests can ride to the communal areas, and you would have us believe he was competing in the Tour of Switzerland.
Having returned to training on Wednesday, Mbappe could feature in Saturday's match. Mourinho dismissed concerns about a potential hostile reaction from supporters toward the forward, expressing absolute certainty that the player has fully respected his duties to Real Madrid. This marks the latest chapter of friction involving Mbappe and sections of the club's fanbase this season, following prior controversies over social messaging campaigns and earlier recovery locations.