A fresh controversy has erupted at Real Madrid involving star forward Kylian Mbappé and manager Álvaro Arbeloa, following Madrid’s recent 2-0 victory over Real Oviedo.
The drama began when Mbappé was surprisingly left on the bench despite reportedly recovering from injury. After the match, the French superstar claimed Arbeloa told him he was now the club’s “fourth-choice attacker,” behind players like Vinícius Júnior, Gonzalo García, and Franco Mastantuono.
Mbappé insisted he was fully fit and ready to start, saying he respected the coach’s decision but admitted he must now “work harder” to regain his place in the starting lineup. His comments immediately created headlines across Spain and Europe.
However, Arbeloa quickly denied making such a statement. The Real Madrid coach explained that his decision was based on fitness concerns and match rhythm after Mbappé recently missed the El Clásico defeat against Barcelona. Arbeloa stated clearly that he never described Mbappé as the fourth striker in the squad.
The situation has intensified existing tensions around the club. Mbappé was booed by sections of the Santiago Bernabéu crowd when he came on as a substitute, with some supporters questioning his commitment after criticism surrounding a trip to Italy during his recovery period.
Spanish media reports now describe the relationship between Mbappé and Arbeloa as increasingly strained, with growing concerns over dressing-room harmony at Real Madrid after a disappointing season without major trophies.
Former Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has also commented on the issue, defending Arbeloa while acknowledging Mbappé’s frustration over his reduced role in the team.
With Real Madrid preparing for their next La Liga fixture against Sevilla, attention will remain firmly on whether Mbappé returns to the starting lineup — and whether the club can calm tensions between one of football’s biggest stars and their manager. Reported by Awoyemi Shina.
