Real Madrid : José Mourinho défend Kylian Mbappé et qualifie les polémiques de “ridicules

Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has dismissed recent media scrutiny surrounding Kylian Mbappé as ridiculous, forcefully defending his star striker ahead of a crucial La Liga fixture against Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Mbappé's Recovery Activities Spark Criticism from Fans

Mbappé’s movements during his recovery period became a focal point across European sports media. Eurosport detailed how the forward attended a private Fashion Week event at a Paris venue often described in reports as a nightclub, before taking a brief trip to Switzerland, where photographs showed him using a bicycle provided by an hotel for guests moving between common areas. Midi Libre noted that the bicycle sighting drew particular criticism from fans in Spain, given that Mourinho had previously cautioned players against cycling due to injury risks.

Mourinho Rebukes Media Framing

Addressing journalists in Madrid, Mourinho took direct aim at the coverage, labeling the controversies manufactured and disproportionate. He maintained that Mbappé had strictly fulfilled all professional requirements requested by the club. According to Eurosport, the Portuguese manager stated that the player traveled to Valdebebas for initial examinations before seeking a second medical opinion in France for his troublesome knee. Mourinho emphasized that the club maintains rigorous control over player rest and rehabilitation schedules, noting that the squad’s professional conduct has been exemplary. Midi Libre highlighted Mourinho’s sharp contrast between the minor travel anecdotes and major footballing headlines elsewhere, quoting the manager as saying that the persistent focus on Mbappé’s private movements was designed intentionally to influence how Santiago Bernabéu supporters might receive the forward upon his return.

Mourinho Reports No New Injuries for Real Madrid

Mourinho also addressed broader disciplinary standards within the squad, offering a firm guarantee regarding player commitment. Shifting focus to squad fitness, Mourinho highlighted a positive milestone for the club, pointing out that in October, Real Madrid has no new injuries, leaving only those who have been in the infirmary since last season. Real Madrid enters the weekend fixture against Villarreal sitting fourth in the La Liga standings with 15 points, trailing league leaders Barcelona.

Mourinho Defends Mbappé Against Travel Frustrations

Kylian Mbappé’s eventful international break began after he scored the lone goal for France in a 1–0 away victory against Turkey during the UEFA Nations League group stage. Real Madrid’s club hierarchy and close associates of president Florentino Pérez reportedly expressed frustration over the ensuing travel itinerary. Addressing the media, José Mourinho criticized the disproportionate focus on his player, stating: Ces polémiques sont ridicules and adding, Apparemment son cas est plus important que celui de Manchester City ou la situation de Cristiano Ronaldo avec le Portugal. Mourinho forcefully asserted, Kylian n’a manqué aucune de ses obligations envers le Real Madrid. Daniel Riolo noted that the forward’s contract with Real Madrid runs until the summer of 2029.