Search

Mbappé Claims Arbeloa Called Him Fourth-Choice Striker After Bench Snub

France captain, Kylian Mbappé is at it again, as he accused the Madrid coach, Álvaro Arbeloa of telling him that he was the team’s fourth choice for their next game against Real Oviedo. The news followed an interesting development whereby Kylian Mbappé was left on the bench despite scoring an incredible goal during the game between Real Madrid and Real Oviedo. Mbappé was even booed by some of the fans who were present at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium. Although Mbappé respected the coach’s decision, Arbeloa categorically stated that he never placed Mbappé fourth on the list.

After missing the Clásico match between FC Barcelona and Madrid because of a hamstring injury, Kylian Mbappé came back strong against Real Oviedo but found himself left on the bench although he claimed to be fit for the game.

Also Read | IPL Fair Play Award Winners List from 2008 to 2025

Mbappé missed the Clásico match between FC Barcelona and Madrid, about which he said, “I didn’t play because the coach told me I’m the fourth-choice forward in the squad behind Franco Mastantuono, Vinícius and Gonzalo….I was ready to start. It’s his decision and it always has to be respected.” 

The France captain also addressed the whistles from Madrid supporters, who have criticised him in recent days after he travelled to Sardinia during his recovery. Mbappé said the trip had been approved by the club and accepted the crowd’s reaction. “They’re not happy,” he said. “That’s the only way to understand the whistles.” He also reflected on Madrid’s poor campaign, saying the team lost its structure in the second half of the season and failed to maintain the level it showed early on. 

Mbappé Must Show His Commitment, Says Arbeloa 

Arbeloa dismissed Mbappé’s interpretation of their conversation and said the forward may have misunderstood him. The coach insisted he could not start a player who had not been available just four days earlier against Barcelona. Even before the Oviedo game, Arbeloa had challenged Mbappé to prove his dedication in the final matches of the season. 

Arbeloa revealed about the lack of commitments from Mbappé, as he said, “If he’s there and can complete the training session and is available, then he’ll definitely get some minutes and the chance in these three games to keep showing the commitment he has to the club.” 

Even in view of the disagreement in public, both of them attempted to calm down the situation. According to Mbappé, he does not have any problems with Arbeloa. Furthermore, the latter also stated that Mbappé will be playing on Sunday against Sevilla FC. He further added that the striker is better than the other players, who will give him the opportunity to make a return to the team’s starting eleven. As per reports, the only games remaining for the club include two league matches.