New tensions are being reported inside the Real Madrid dressing room, with Kylian Mbappe reportedly entering into open conflict not only with coach Alvaro Arbeloa, but also with teammate Vinicius Junior.
The French striker has been at the centre of criticism in recent weeks for a lack of commitment and unprofessional behaviour, with the situation appearing to have worsened following Los Blancos’ 2-0 win over Real Oviedo.
According to reports from Spanish media, Mbappe suddenly appeared in the mixed zone after the match and stated that Arbeloa had communicated to him that he was only considered the fourth choice in the offensive department.
The Frenchman also defended his decision to spend a few days of vacation in Sardinia with his partner, actress Ester Exposito, before the challenge against Espanyol.
It is reported that club officials are concerned about the player’s behavior, while president Florentino Perez is expected to hold a meeting with Mbappe to discuss the situation.
According to El Chiringuito , the 27-year-old striker believes he has been treated unfairly by Arbeloa, especially after the decision to leave him on the bench in El Clasico, which he considers a lack of respect.
After this episode, Mbappe reportedly left the team training camp complaining of muscle discomfort in his hamstring.
The relationship between the two Real Madrid stars is deteriorating
He compared his situation to that of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who, despite recovering from injury, immediately returned to the starting lineup and even took vacation leave during his rehabilitation period.
Doubts against Vinicius
The reports go even further, claiming that Mbappe and those close to him believe that Vinicius Junior is leaking negative information to the media to damage the Frenchman’s image.
According to this version, the Brazilian is trying to strengthen his position as the team’s main figure and gain the status of absolute leader at the “Santiago Bernabeu”.
The situation becomes even more delicate considering that Vinicius is on the verge of contract renewal negotiations, where he is reportedly demanding a salary equal to that of Mbappe.
Mbappe and several other unidentified Real Madrid players are also believed to blame Vinicius for the departure of former coach Xabi Alonso, claiming that the Brazilian had a behind-the-scenes influence over his dismissal.
The same group of players think Xabi Alonso was a better coach than Arbeloa.
These developments have increased rumors of a deep rift within the Madrid camp, at a very delicate moment for the Spanish club.
