Real Madrid’s Mourinho lashes out at ‘ridiculous’ criticism of Mbappe | Football
Real Madrid Coach Defends Kylian Mbappe Amid Recovery Criticism
Published on October 9, 2026
Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has responded to criticism directed at star striker Kylian Mbappe, labeling the scrutiny as “ridiculous.” Mbappe, who is recovering from a left knee injury sustained in a Nations League match against Turkey on September 25, has faced backlash for choosing to recuperate in France and Switzerland rather than in Madrid.
The 27-year-old forward suffered a hyperextension of his knee during the match and has since been photographed at a Paris nightclub and cycling in Switzerland. Some fans alleged that his actions were a form of disrespect towards Mourinho, who recently urged players to refrain from skiing or biking to prevent further injuries.
“Are these criticisms over the top? They are ridiculous,” Mourinho said at a press conference on Friday, ahead of Real Madrid’s La Liga home game against Villarreal. He emphasized that all players were required to be present for their recovery protocols, noting that Mbappe underwent medical scans before consulting a specialist in France due to his knee’s history.
Mourinho, known for his confrontational style, addressed each criticism leveled at Mbappe. “Problems involving football are not sufficient for you,” he remarked to reporters, refuting claims regarding the nightclub visit, which he clarified was a private event for Fashion Week, not a standard bar outing. Regarding the cycling incident, he described it as a leisurely activity in a hotel complex designed for guest use.
Mbappe returned to training on Wednesday and could make his on-field return as soon as Saturday. Mourinho downplayed the possibility of a negative reception from fans at the Villarreal match, assuring that Mbappe has met his obligations to the club.
This season is not the first instance of fan backlash against Mbappe. The Ultras Sur, a Real Madrid supporter group with extreme views and a ban from the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, expressed discontent with Mbappe last month. The group criticized him for participating in a gesture supporting the people of Ceuta, a Spanish enclave facing a migration crisis.
Additionally, Mbappe faced online condemnation earlier this season regarding his choice of recovery location after a previous injury, leading to calls from some fans for his departure from the club.
