Tensions at Real Madrid » Over 100,000 signatures for the exclusion of Mbappe because of his girlfriend!
Article by Romeo Ene – Published on Tuesday, 05 May 2026, 19:38 / Updated on Tuesday, 05 May 2026 19:38
Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe (27) has reacted to the wave of criticism following reports that he traveled to Italy with actress Ester Exposito while recuperating from a muscle injury. It all happened just a week before El Clasico, a match which Barcelona can win the title.
“Part of the criticism is based on an exaggerated interpretation of the elements related to the recovery period, which is strictly controlled by the club, without taking into account the reality of Kylian's commitment and the work he does every day for the team,” the player's representatives said, quoted by the AP agency.
Kylian's presence in Sunday's El Clasico remains uncertain. The Spaniards note that Mbappe showed up at the training center even on his day off to continue his recovery.
Tension over the Frenchman: massive fan petition
The situation has escalated in recent days after some Real Madrid fans launched an online petition calling for Mbappe's departure. According to Actu Foot, the initiative gathered more than 70,000 signatures in the first hour and later exceeded 140,000 supporters.
Supporters are unhappy with the player's behavior off the pitch and believe he has strayed from the dressing room. In the public space, information appeared about delays at team events and tense attitudes towards the staff, aspects that amplified the criticism.
Mbappe joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2024. In the 2025/26 season, he made 41 appearances in all competitions with 41 goals and 6 assists. On 27 April, the club announced that the forward would be out indefinitely with a left thigh injury.
Real Madrid are 2nd in La Liga with 77 points, 11 points behind leaders Barcelona. The Catalans are champions with a win in El Clasico.
The up-to-date standings in La Liga
