Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe faces intense fan backlash and petition over Sardinia trip during injury recovery
A petition demanding the French forward's sale has gathered over 1.2 million signatures following images of him in Italy while recovering from a hamstring injury.
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe is facing significant scrutiny after being photographed on a trip to Sardinia, Italy, while recovering from a hamstring injury. The timing of the getaway has drawn sharp criticism from supporters, who view the move as inconsistent with his status as a key asset for the club during a pivotal moment in the La Liga campaign.
The controversy has escalated to the point where an online petition calling for Mbappe's sale has accumulated more than 1.2 million signatures. The petition, which circulated alongside images of the star in Italy, urges club members to demand change for the institution's future, citing the need for accountability during the current season.
Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa addressed the situation immediately following the club's recent victory over Espanyol, a result that shifted the La Liga title race to a decisive Sunday match against Barcelona. In his statement, Arbeloa emphasised that the club was built on effort and sacrifice rather than luxury, declaring that no player has ever been, is, or ever will be bigger than Real Madrid.
Mbappe's representatives responded to the allegations by stating that the criticism stems from an overinterpretation of his recovery arrangements. They argued that the period spent in Sardinia was strictly supervised by the club's medical staff and did not reflect a lack of commitment to the team's objectives.
The debate highlights the tension between individual recovery protocols and institutional expectations, particularly as the club prepares for an upcoming El Clásico in Barcelona. This match is now seen as the primary opportunity for Barcelona to clinch the title, adding pressure on Real Madrid to ensure their squad is fully focused on the campaign.
Contextual data suggests that while Mbappe scored 41 goals in 41 games during his second season at the club, the team secured the Champions League in his first season without him. The club's leadership maintains that the current situation is a matter of medical supervision rather than a breach of loyalty.
