Kylian Mbappe’s drama-filled 2025-2026 season at Real Madrid continued as the French international had another tense interaction with Real Madrid fans and interim Real Adrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa.
Mbappe didn’t play in Real Madrid’s 2-0 loss to FC Barcelona in the El Clasico that effectively sealed the league title win for Barcelona due to a hamstring injury reportedly. However, the French captain came off the bench in the 69th minute in Madrid’s 2-0 win over relegated Real Oviedo.
Mbappe replaced Gonzalo Garcia who scored the first goal but Mbappe’s introduction to the game was greeted with loud whistles and boos from Madrid fans at the Bernabeu. (Scroll down to watch video)
Speaking to the media after the game, Mbappe dismissed suggestions indicating his absence in the El Clasico wasnt his fault but rather the fault of Madrid interim coach Alvaro Arbeloa.
“I’m well, I’m 100%. I didn’t play because the coach [Arbeloa] told me I’m the fourth-choice forward in the squad behind [Franco] Mastantuono, Vinícius [Júnior] and Gonzalo. I was ready to start. I’m not angry with the manager. You always have to respect a coach’s decision. I’ll work hard to get back into the starting lineup” Mbappe said.
In response Arbeloa said, “I wish I had four forwards. I don’t have four forwards, and I certainly didn’t say anything like that to Mbappé. Perhaps he-Mbappe-didn’t understand me. I don’t know how he might have interpreted it.”
“A player who wasn’t on the bench four days ago (against Barcelona) shouldn’t start today (against Oviedo). It’s not a final, it’s not a do-or-die situation. That’s all. I don’t have any problem with anyone.
In 42 games in all competitions this season, Mbappe has 41 goals and seven assists.
🚨⚠️ Real Madrid fans at the Bernabéu whistling Kylian Mbappé tonight. ❗️@lejournaldureal 🎥 pic.twitter.com/oDbLgI4yfi
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 14, 2026
