LaLiga: Mbappé Claims Arbeloa Demoted Him to Fourth Option
Spain Afrik24 – Tensions are reportedly mounting at the Santiago Bernabéu as Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé grows increasingly disillusioned with his current standing under manager Alvaro Arbeloa.
The friction stems from a direct conversation in which the Spanish coach informed the French international that he has slipped to fourth in the club’s striking hierarchy, no longer holding the status of a primary starter.
This tactical shift comes at a turbulent time for the player, who recently made his return from a thigh injury only to be utilized as a substitute.
The internal discord further underscores a dismal period for Los Blancos, who are now braced to finish a second straight season without major silverware following Barcelona’s recent confirmation as league champions.
Without Mbappé, Madrid suffered a defeat in the Clasico at Camp Nou on Sunday, confirming Hansi Flick’s team as title winners.
The club’s leading goalscorer, Mbappé, has faced significant criticism from fans in recent weeks for what is perceived as a lack of commitment to the team.
Gonzalo Garcia opened the scoring for second-place Madrid before half-time, and Jude Bellingham added a second goal in a routine victory over relegated Oviedo, in a stadium filled with thousands of empty seats.
Arbeloa, whose future as Madrid coach appears uncertain with Jose Mourinho rumored to be returning to the Bernabeu bench, started the match with both Mbappé and England international Bellingham on the bench.
In a press conference following the game, Mbappé remarked, “I was prepared to start, but Arbeloa informed me that I am now the fourth striker.
“It’s acceptable; we must respect the coach’s decisions. I will be putting in even more effort.
“Arbeloa mentioned that I am the fourth striker behind Vini Jr, Gonzalo, and Mastantuono.
“I recall people suggesting I needed to rest in the Copa del Rey, that I was playing too frequently… and then we were eliminated by a lower division team.
“I do not watch Arbeloa’s press conferences. At home, I have French television, not Spanish television.”
