Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe finds himself in the eye of the storm in the Spanish capital after his recent trip to France and Italy while recovering from an injury.
While the team was preparing to take on RCD Espanyol over the weekend, the 27-year-old was away on vacation, first in Paris and then in Italy, causing quite a stir, not only among the fans but also within the club.
There is some concern within the dressing room as well about the timing of the trip at a time when the all-important El Clasico against Barcelona is on the horizon.
Mbappe responds
Mbappe returned to Madrid on Sunday and was back at Real Madrid’s training ground in Valdebebas on Monday, continuing his recovery from a muscle injury.
After training, Mbappe stopped briefly to greet supporters, signing shirts and taking a photo. It was a quiet moment, but things got more interesting when cameras from El Chiringuito approached him.
They asked about the criticism surrounding his recent trips, his current fitness, and whether he expects to be ready for the upcoming Clasico.
Mbappe’s response was short and telling as he said: “I don’t understand.”
The 27-year-old superstar did not provide any further explanation before he drove off.
Mbappe’s curt response will likely keep the conversation going around his situation, especially with the Clasico getting closer.
As for his availability for the game against Barcelona, he is expected to undergo further tests on Wednesday to determine whether he can play at the Spotify Camp Nou.