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Kylian Mbappe's Sardinia holiday sparks fan anger at Real Madrid
๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Saudi Arabia /Sports

Kylian Mbappe's Sardinia holiday sparks fan anger at Real Madrid

From Asharq Al-Awsat · (11m ago) English Critical tone

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe is facing backlash from some fans over his holiday in Sardinia while recovering from a hamstring injury.
  • Supporters are expressing anger online, with some calling for his departure and an online petition circulating.
  • Coach Alvaro Arbeloa defended Mbappe's right to use his free time, but also made comments perceived as criticism regarding player effort.

A section of Real Madrid supporters has voiced strong displeasure with star striker Kylian Mbappe, whose recent holiday in Sardinia has ignited a media storm. While recovering from a hamstring injury, Mbappe's decision to vacation has been deemed a 'final straw' by some fans, who are openly calling for his exit from the club. An online petition has emerged, urging fans to make their voices heard regarding the perceived lack of commitment.

If you believe change is necessary, do not remain silent: sign this petition and defend what you believe is best for the future of the club

โ€” Online petitionThe text of an online petition circulating among Real Madrid fans calling for change.

The controversy was further fueled by photos of Mbappe with actress Ester Exposito, shared on social media as the team prepared for a crucial match. While coach Alvaro Arbeloa stated that players are free to do as they please in their personal time, his subsequent remarks about building Real Madrid with players who show 'sweat and mud' rather than 'tuxedos' were widely interpreted as indirect criticism of the French international.

each player does what they consider appropriate in their free time

โ€” Alvaro ArbeloaReal Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa's initial comment on player autonomy during rest days.

Mbappe's entourage has pushed back against the criticism, suggesting that 'part of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements linked to a recovery period that is strictly supervised by the club.' They maintain that the player's commitment and daily work for the team are being misrepresented. Despite being the team's leading scorer, Mbappe has faced scrutiny for an 'overly individualistic approach' and is reportedly becoming isolated in the dressing room, adding another layer to the ongoing saga.

We didn't build Real Madrid with players who play in tuxedos, but with players who finish matches with shirts full of sweat and mud, through effort and sacrifice

โ€” Alvaro ArbeloaAlvaro Arbeloa's remarks perceived as criticism of players perceived as less committed.
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Originally published by Asharq Al-Awsat in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.