Kylian Mbappé's relationship with Real Madrid has hit a new low. After a 2-0 win over Real Oviedo, the French forward dropped a bombshell: he claims manager Álvaro Arbeloa told him he's currently the fourth-choice striker at the club. According to Mbappé, the pecking order places him behind Franco Mastantuono, Vinícius Júnior, and academy product Gonzalo García.
Mbappé's comments came straight after the match. “Hoy no he jugado porque Arbeloa me ha dicho que SOY EL CUARTO DELANTERO DE LA PLANTILLA detrás de Mastantuono, Vini y Gonzalo,” he said. “Así que pregúntenle a él, yo estaba listo para ser titular.” The statement stunned fans and pundits alike, given Mbappé's status as one of the world's most expensive players.
Coach Denies, Tension Rises
Arbeloa wasted no time responding. In his post-match press conference, the Madrid-born coach flatly denied using those words. He suggested a misunderstanding, but made it clear that his lineups are based on merit and physical condition, not reputation. “I never said that to him,” Arbeloa stated. “Decisions are based on performance and fitness, not on names.”
This public contradiction comes at a fragile moment for Real Madrid. Barcelona have already clinched the La Liga title, and Madrid face a second straight season without a major trophy. The club's internal dynamics have been strained since Xabi Alonso's departure, and this latest incident only deepens the sense of crisis. For more on the locker room atmosphere, check out our report on Carvajal and Asencio's clash with Arbeloa over Mbappé's travels.
Fan Discontent and the Vacation Controversy
The tension isn't just between player and coach. During the Oviedo match, Mbappé was met with whistles from a section of the Santiago Bernabéu crowd. The anger stems from leaked photos of the Frenchman on vacation while recovering from a muscle injury—time off that kept him from being fit for the Clásico against Barça. Although Mbappé insists the club authorized his break, fans see it as a lack of commitment in a season where the team has lost its identity.
This isn't the first time Mbappé's dedication has been questioned. Earlier this year, a training ground clash with staff raised eyebrows ahead of the Clásico. The pattern of off-field distractions is becoming hard to ignore.
What's Next for Mbappé?
With only two matches left—against Sevilla and Athletic Club—Mbappé's role remains uncertain. He has vowed to work hard to regain his starting spot, but the emergence of Gonzalo García complicates his path. The young academy striker has impressed in limited minutes, and Arbeloa seems willing to give him opportunities.
The summer promises to be turbulent. Florentino Pérez has announced new presidential elections, and Mbappé's future at the club will be a central topic. Will he stay and fight for his place, or could a move be on the cards? The dilemma of sharing the spotlight with Vinícius Jr. adds another layer to the story.
For now, Madrid fans are left wondering if their superstar can adapt to a system that no longer revolves around him. The answer may define the club's direction for years to come.
