Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has come to the defense of Kylian Mbappe, describing criticism of him as “ridiculous”.
France captain Mbappe picked up an injury against Turkey in the Nations League. His activities afterwards have drawn criticism, as Mbappe attended Paris Fashion Week and was also spotted riding a bicycle, something Mourinho had criticized in the past.
“When it comes to Real Madrid, it’s always different,” he 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.
“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,” BBC Sport quoted.
Mourinho clarified that the bicycle was meant for guests to make short journeys in the hotel where the French striker lodged in Switzerland.
He said the pictures that circulated on social media misrepresented Mbappe’s activities. “Exaggerated, no – I think it was ridiculous.
“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,” he added.
Real Madrid are six points behind leaders Barcelona in La Liga after seven games.
Kylian Mbappé, 27, is one of the favorites for this year’s Ballon d’Or. Despite netting 42 goals in 44 games last season, Mbappe endured another trophyless season.
