Mbappe defends his commitment to recovery amid criticism over trip to Italy ahead of El Clasico

Responding to a new wave of criticism in Spain, Kylian Mbappé stressed on Tuesday that he remains fully committed to recovering from his latest injury.

The Real Madrid and France forward is sidelined with a left hamstring problem, casting doubt on his availability for Sunday’s El Clasico in Barcelona, ​​the biggest match in Spanish football.

During his time off, Mbappé is said to have traveled to Italy with actress Ester Expósito last weekend, prompting criticism in the Spanish media that he may not be taking his rehabilitation seriously. Madrid fans also wondered why the league’s best striker was on holiday ahead of the Clásico.

Mbappe denied any wrongdoing through a statement issued by his representatives The Associated Press.

«Some of the criticism is based on an overinterpretation of elements related to a recovery period under close supervision by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he does for the team every day,» the statement said.

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Unhappy Real Madrid supporters believe Mbappe is saving himself for the FIFA World Cup which starts in five weeks.

He was also criticized earlier this season when he was unable to play due to a knee injury.

Madrid has little to play for in the latter part of the season. The team has been eliminated from the Champions League and the Copa del Rey and is virtually out of contention in La Liga, as the team is eleven points ahead of Barcelona with four rounds to go. Barcelona could win the league title on Sunday.

Madrid have yet to say whether Mbappe is fit and available for the Clasico. According to Spanish media, Mbappé went to Madrid’s training center on a day off to continue his recovery.

Published on May 5, 2026