Kylian Mbappe has voiced his disappointment with Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa after being informed that he is now considered the club’s fourth-choice striker.
The French attacker, who recently recovered from a thigh injury, started on the bench during Real Madrid’s comfortable victory over relegated Real Oviedo.
Speaking after the game, Mbappé disclosed that Arbeloa told him he had dropped behind Vinícius Júnior, Gonzalo García, and Franco Mastantuono in the team’s attacking hierarchy.
“I was prepared to start, but Arbeloa informed me that I am now the fourth striker.
“It’s acceptable; we must respect the coach’s decisions. I will be putting in even more effort.
“Arbeloa mentioned that I am the fourth striker behind Vini Jr, Gonzalo, and Mastantuono.
“I recall people suggesting I needed to rest in the Copa del Rey, that I was playing too frequently… and then we were eliminated by a lower division team.
“I do not watch Arbeloa’s press conferences. At home, I have French television, not Spanish television.”
Mbappé has recently faced criticism from sections of the club’s supporters over what they perceive as limited commitment, despite still being Real Madrid’s leading scorer this season.
Madrid are also on course to end a second consecutive season without winning a major trophy after rivals FC Barcelona clinched the league title following last weekend’s El Clásico triumph.
Meanwhile, Arbeloa’s future at the Santiago Bernabéu remains uncertain amid reports linking former manager José Mourinho with a possible return to the club.
