Mourinho Fires Back At Mbappe Critics, Calls International Break Controversy Ridiculous’

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has described the criticism surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s activities during the recent international break as “ridiculous”, insisting that the French forward fulfilled his responsibilities to the Spanish club.

Mbappe withdrew from international duty after sustaining an injury during France’s encounter against Turkey on September 25. However, photographs and videos showing the forward attending a Paris Fashion Week event and riding a bicycle in Switzerland subsequently attracted attention, with some questioning whether his activities were appropriate while recovering from the injury.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Mourinho defended the 27-year-old, maintaining that Real Madrid’s players complied with the club’s expectations during the international break.

“When it comes to Real Madrid, it’s always different,” Mourinho 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.”

The manager stressed that Real Madrid would not hesitate to discipline any player who failed to meet the club’s standards, explaining that such individuals would not be allowed to remain part of the matchday squad.

“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,” he stated.

Mourinho also addressed concerns about a photograph showing Mbappe riding a bicycle in Switzerland. He explained that bicycles were available for guests at the hotel complex to use when travelling short distances, suggesting that the activity did not necessarily indicate misconduct during his recovery.

Asked whether the media attention surrounding Mbappe had been excessive, Mourinho dismissed the criticism in strong terms.

“Exaggerated, no, I think it was ridiculous,” he said.

The manager further indicated that Mbappe’s availability for Real Madrid’s next match would depend on his fitness and whether he had met his obligations to the club.

“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,” Mourinho added.

Mbappe enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, scoring 42 goals in 44 appearances for Real Madrid, although the Spanish giants finished the season without a major trophy.

The France captain has also remained a prominent figure in discussions surrounding individual football honours. He was among the favourites for the Ballon d’Or, while his international achievements have further strengthened his reputation as one of the leading forwards in world football.

Despite Mbappe’s individual performances, Real Madrid face pressure to improve their position in La Liga, having reportedly fallen six points behind leaders Barcelona after seven matches.

Mourinho’s defence of the forward comes amid growing scrutiny of elite footballers’ conduct away from the pitch, particularly when injuries prevent them from representing their clubs or national teams.