Mourinho rebukes Mbappe criticism as 'ridiculous'
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho defends Kylian Mbappe over his activities during the international break, calling the scrutiny 'ridiculous'.
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has dismissed as "ridiculous" the criticism directed at Kylian Mbappe over his actions during the recent international break. Mbappe, the France captain, withdrew from national duty after sustaining an injury against Turkey on 25 September.
During his absence, Mbappe posted images on social media from a Paris Fashion Week event and of himself riding a bicycle. Mourinho had previously stated that such activities were against his rules.
However, the Portuguese coach clarified that the bicycle image, taken in Switzerland, had been misrepresented. He explained that bicycles were provided for guests at his hotel complex for short trips. Mourinho emphasized that all Real Madrid players fulfilled their obligations during the break and suggested that critics were seeking unnecessary problems.
Mourinho also issued a warning about player conduct, stating that any Real Madrid player who fails to meet the club's standards would not be on the bench but at home. He confirmed that Mbappe would play if selected, as the forward had not failed the club or his obligations.
Real Madrid currently sit six points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona after seven games. Mbappe, 27, is a leading contender for the Ballon d'Or after scoring 42 goals in 44 club appearances last season, though the team won no trophies. He also won the World Cup Golden Boot with 10 goals, extending his record career World Cup tally to 22, as France finished fourth.
Some supporters have backed Mourinho's defense, arguing that the scrutiny is overblown and that players deserve privacy during their time off. Others, however, feel that Mbappe should have shown greater commitment to his national team and club by avoiding public activities while injured.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
