Mbappe Responds to Wave of Criticism: "Exaggerated Interpretation"

Pulse Sports Team 16:34 - 05 May 2026

French footballer Kylian Mbappe has reacted to a wave of criticism that began after the Real Madrid forward allegedly traveled to Italy with actress Ester Exposito last week while recovering from a muscle injury. This occurred a week before El Clasico at Barcelona.

"Some of the criticism is based on an exaggerated interpretation of elements related to the rehabilitation period, which is strictly controlled by the club, without taking into account the reality of Kylian's commitment and the work he puts in for the team every day," AP quoted representatives of La Liga's top scorer as saying.

The 27-year-old "Los Blancos" forward's participation in Sunday's El Clasico is uncertain. According to Spanish media, Mbappe arrived at the club's training center on his day off to continue his recovery.

Fans of the Spanish giants claim that Mbappe is saving himself for the World Cup, which kicks off in five weeks. The Frenchman has scored 24 goals in 28 league matches for Real this season.