Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa has dismissed speculation of a dressing-room rift with Kylian Mbappe following the French forward’s explosive comments about his role in the team.
The controversy erupted after Mbappe claimed he had been told he was currently the “fourth-choice” forward in the squad following his substitute appearance in Real Madrid’s recent victory over Real Oviedo.
Mbappe, who recently returned from a hamstring injury, came off the bench during the second half and was reportedly booed by sections of the Santiago Bernabeu crowd.
Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s La Liga clash against Sevilla, Arbeloa strongly rejected suggestions that his relationship with Mbappe had deteriorated.
The Madrid coach clarified that he never directly described Mbappe as the team’s fourth-choice striker and suggested the French star may have misunderstood his comments during internal discussions.
Arbeloa also defended his decision to leave Mbappe out of the starting lineup, explaining that the forward had only recently recovered from injury and was not ready to immediately play a full match.
According to the coach, squad rotation and player fitness were the main reasons behind the selection call rather than any personal disagreement.
Mbappe, meanwhile, attempted to downplay the situation by insisting he respected the manager’s decisions and remained committed to the club despite his frustration over limited game time.
The issue has nevertheless intensified media attention around Real Madrid’s dressing-room atmosphere during a difficult phase of the season. The club has faced growing criticism after inconsistent performances and internal tensions involving several senior figures.
Despite the controversy, Arbeloa confirmed Mbappe remains a key part of his plans and hinted the French superstar is likely to return to the starting lineup in the upcoming match against Sevilla.
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