Kylian Mbappe has faced renewed criticism in Spain after being seen at a nightclub in Paris with actress and girlfriend Ester Exposito while recovering from injury.
The Real Madrid forward’s visit to the French capital on Wednesday has reignited questions about his professionalism and conduct away from the pitch. Spanish media reacted negatively after Mbappe left the France camp following a left-knee injury suffered in the match against Turkey, in which he scored.
Real Madrid said Mbappe was suffering from an overstretching injury to the back of his knee. Reports in Spain have indicated that the issue requires only complete rest, and that the club had given him permission to stay away from its training centre at Valdebebas.
However, his appearance at a Paris nightclub has prompted a fresh backlash. It was also reported that this was not the first time Mbappe had spent part of his recovery away from Madrid. The details were reported by French outlet Foot Mercato.
David Sanchez, a journalist with Marca radio, criticised the France international despite acknowledging his exceptional ability. Sanchez said Mbappe continued to repeat mistakes that angered Real Madrid supporters.
Mbappe, Sanchez argued, could have returned to Madrid and appeared at the club’s training centre. That, he said, would have created a more positive impression among supporters and shown his commitment to the recovery programme, rather than seeing him appear in Paris again.
Sanchez also warned that repeating such behaviour could damage Mbappe’s image.
Juanma Castano, speaking on COPE, also questioned the player’s decision. He said an early return to Madrid would have sent a different message to Real Madrid supporters, particularly while doubts and debate surrounding the injury remained.
The latest criticism follows a similar controversy from last season, when Mbappe travelled to Sardinia with his girlfriend while he was unavailable because of injury. That trip led to questions in the Spanish press about his level of commitment.
Despite the growing scrutiny, reports from the television programme El Chiringuito suggest Mbappe is in contention to start for Real Madrid against Villarreal.
His possible return to the starting line-up has therefore come as debate continues over his behaviour away from football and the effect his movements during recovery could have on his relationship with the club’s supporters.