Kylian Mbappe finally returned to action for Real Madrid on Thursday after missing several important matches, including the recent Clasico against Barcelona.
However, instead of receiving a warm welcome, the French superstar was met with loud boos from sections of the Madrid supporters during the clash against Oviedo.
The reaction from fans came after weeks of criticism surrounding Mbappe’s absence and his trips away from Madrid during his recovery period.
Despite the hostile atmosphere, the forward remained calm after the match and addressed the situation while speaking to reporters.
Was ready for the Clasico
Reflecting on missing the Clasico, Mbappe admitted his frustration but made it clear he was not offended by the supporters’ reaction.
“It was a shame for me not to play in El Clasico. That’s life. We can’t change people’s opinions. It’s their way of doing things, and I don’t take it personally.
“I was 100% ready to play. I always want to play, but we move forward.
“I’ve had moments in my career where I’ve been booed. It’s part of the business and part of life.
“Sometimes they’re not happy, but they’re always here,” he said.
Mbappe came off the bench against Real Oviedo. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The Frenchman also responded to criticism over his trip to Italy during his absence from the squad.
“When I wasn’t in Madrid, I had the club’s permission. I wasn’t the only one, but you have to accept it and move on. I can easily change this situation.”
Fourth striker for Arbeloa
One of the biggest talking points after the match was Mbappe’s role on the bench against Oviedo, especially considering his status as one of the biggest stars in world football.
The attacker surprisingly accepted the manager’s decision and admitted he currently sits behind other players in the attacking order.
“I’m 100% fine. I haven’t played because, for the manager, I’ve been the fourth striker in the squad behind Mastantuono, Vini and Gonzalo.
“Ask the manager. I was ready to start, but it’s his decision, and you always have to respect that. I’m not angry.”
Mbappe also gave an honest assessment of Real Madrid’s disappointing 2025/26 campaign, admitting the team lost its identity during the second half of the season.
“We started the season well; we had everything going for us. Then we lost it all in the second half.
“It hurts a lot because we had a structure and a game plan, but we lost it all.
“We have to accept the criticism and come back next year. We haven’t won any titles. It hurts because we had the chance to do better.
“We showed that in the first half of the season. That’s not Real Madrid. You always have to defend the club in the best possible way.”
On Alonso and Arbeloa
The forward also clarified that he still maintains a positive relationship with former coach Xabi Alonso.
“I have a great relationship with Xabi; he’s going to be a great manager. But that’s in the past and we have to look ahead.”
Even though Mbappe handled the criticism professionally, the situation around him is becoming increasingly tense.
Furthermore, he was also asked about his relationship with Arbeloa and whether his watches his manager’s press conferences at home.
“I have no problem with Arbeloa. You have to respect him. You have to accept the manager’s philosophy, and I have to do better to play ahead of Vini, Gonzalo and Mastantuono.
“I don’t watch the manager’s press conferences. At home, I have French TV, not Spanish.”
Lastly, despite the speculation surrounding his future, Mbappe also shut down any suggestion of leaving Madrid.
“I’m very happy in Madrid. Why would I want to leave?”
Source: DAZN
