Kylian Mbappe has responded to criticism over injury recovery ahead of El Clasico amid talks of him not taking the Barcelona match seriously and saving himself for the World Cup.

Kylian Mbappe responded to a fresh wave of criticism in Spain, insisting on Tuesday he remains fully committed to recovering from his latest injury.

The Real Madrid and France forward is sidelined by a left hamstring issue, which is casting doubt about his availability for Sunday’s El Clasico in Barcelona, the biggest match in Spanish football.

During his time off, Mbappe reportedly traveled to Italy with actress Ester Exposito last weekend, prompting criticism in Spanish media that he may not be taking his rehabilitation seriously. Madrid fans also questioned why the league’s best striker was on holiday ahead of the El Clasico.

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Mbappe denied any wrongdoing through a statement from his representatives sent to The Associated Press.

“Part of the criticism is based on an overinterpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team,” the statement read.

Unhappy Real Madrid supporters believe Mbappe is saving himself for the World Cup that begins in five weeks in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Mbappe will lead 2022 finalists France in the tournament.

He also drew criticism earlier this season when he couldn’t play because of a knee ailment.

Madrid has little to play for in the final stretch of the season. It has been eliminated in the Champions League and the Copa del Rey, and is virtually out of contention in La Liga as it trails Barcelona by 11 points with four rounds remaining. Barcelona could clinch on Sunday.

Madrid has yet to say whether Mbappe will be fit and available for the El Clasico. Spanish media say Mbappe went to Madrid’s training center on a day off to continue his recovery.

First Published:
May 06, 2026, 02:31 IST

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