Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has hit back at criticism of Kylian Mbappe over his activities during the international break, describing the controversy as “ridiculous”.
Mbappe pulled out of France’s squad after suffering an injury against Turkey on September 25 but later drew attention after posting pictures from a Paris Fashion Week event and a bicycle ride.
Although Mourinho had previously said cycling was against his rules, he defended the France captain, maintaining that Real Madrid players had met their obligations during the break.
According to BBC Sport on Friday, Mourinho said, “When it comes to Real Madrid, it’s always different,” Mourinho said.
“But all the players did exactly what they were supposed to during the break. And then you always want to look for more problems and issues.”
The Portuguese coach warned that players who disregard the club’s expectations would face disciplinary consequences.
“What I can promise is when a Real Madrid player doesn’t behave the way a Real Madrid player is supposed to and when he fails at that and he stops being a Real Madrid player for 24 hours, you will not see that player on the bench because he will be at home,” he added.
Mourinho also rejected claims that Mbappe acted irresponsibly after photographs showed him cycling in Switzerland, explaining that bicycles were provided for hotel guests making short trips.
Asked if the attention surrounding the forward had been blown out of proportion, Mourinho replied: “Exaggerated, no — I think it was ridiculous.”
He added that Mbappe’s selection for Real Madrid’s next fixture would demonstrate that he had fulfilled his duties.
“If Mbappe plays tomorrow, it’s because he hasn’t failed Real Madrid and he hasn’t failed to fulfil his obligations to the club,” Mourinho said.
Real Madrid sit six points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona after seven matches, putting pressure on the team to maintain consistency as the campaign progresses.
Mbappe, 27, remains among the leading contenders for this year’s Ballon d’Or after scoring 42 goals in 44 appearances for Real Madrid last season, despite the club ending the campaign without a trophy.
The France captain also claimed the World Cup Golden Boot with 10 goals, taking his tournament record to 22, although France finished fourth.
