Kylian Mbappe has received a firm public backing from Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa after criticism emerged over the forward’s defensive contribution in last week’s Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich.
The French star came under scrutiny in the aftermath of Real’s dramatic quarter final exit, with some observers questioning his work without the ball during the closing stages of the tie. Bayern won 4-3 on the night and progressed 6-4 on aggregate after a pulsating second leg, with the Spanish side’s challenge collapsing late on after Eduardo Camavinga was sent off in the 86th minute.
That sequence appeared to trigger renewed debate around Mbappe’s defensive responsibilities, despite the forward having scored in both legs and once again played a decisive role in Madrid’s attacking play. Arbeloa, however, made it clear on Monday that he had no issue whatsoever with the player’s performance.
Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s LaLiga meeting with Alaves, the under pressure coach strongly defended Mbappe and dismissed suggestions that the Frenchman had let the team down. Arbeloa said he had nothing to reproach Mbappe for, insisting the striker was at the top of his game, remained a constant danger to Bayern’s defence, and worked extremely hard throughout the match.
The coach’s comments amount to a clear attempt to shield one of Madrid’s biggest stars at a time when the club is facing growing frustration over a season that now looks likely to end without silverware. Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid in pursuit of Champions League glory, has scored 40 goals in all competitions in his second season in Spain, yet the trophy he most wanted remains out of reach for at least another year.
Madrid’s elimination has also intensified pressure on Arbeloa himself. Since replacing Xabi Alonso earlier this season, the 43 year old has found himself under growing examination, with Real trailing Barcelona by nine points in the title race with only seven league matches remaining. His future beyond the current campaign has therefore become a subject of increasing speculation.
Arbeloa declined to go into detail about whether he expects to remain in charge next season, saying only that the matter is not in his hands. Even so, he pushed back against any suggestion that the club requires a complete rebuild, arguing that there is no need for a huge revolution in order for Real Madrid to recover and compete strongly again next term.
For now, the immediate focus remains on Madrid’s response to their European disappointment and on whether Mbappe and his team mates can finish the domestic season with some pride restored. Arbeloa’s comments made one thing clear: whatever the criticism from outside, he is not prepared to make Mbappe the fall guy for Real Madrid’s latest Champions League setback.
