Kylian Mbapp\u00e9 responded to a fresh wave of criticism in Spain, insisting on Tuesday he remains fully committed to recovering from his latest injury.<\/p>\n
The Real Madrid and France forward is sidelined by a left hamstring issue which is casting doubt about his availability for Sunday\u2019s clasico in Barcelona, the biggest match in Spanish soccer.<\/p>\n
During his time off, Mbapp\u00e9 reportedly traveled to Italy with actress Ester Exp\u00f3sito last weekend, prompting criticism in Spanish media that he may not be taking his rehabilitation seriously. Madrid fans also questioned why the league\u2019s best striker was on holiday ahead of the clasico.<\/p>\n
Mbapp\u00e9 denied any wrongdoing through a statement from his representatives sent to The Associated Press.<\/p>\n
\u201cPart 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\u2019s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n
Unhappy Real Madrid supporters believe Mbapp\u00e9 is saving himself for the World Cup that begins in five weeks. <\/p>\n
He also drew criticism earlier this season when he couldn\u2019t play because of a knee ailment.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Madrid has yet to say whether Mbapp\u00e9 will be fit and available for the clasico. Spanish media say Mbapp\u00e9 went to Madrid\u2019s training center on a day off to continue his recovery.<\/p>\n
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AP Sports Writer Tales Azzoni in Madrid contributed.<\/p>\n
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