Real Madrid’s season continues to spiral into chaos both on and off the pitch.
The pressure around the club has intensified in recent weeks after disappointing performances, internal tensions, and growing uncertainty surrounding manager Alvaro Arbeloa.
Despite Kylian Mbappe scoring 41 goals in all competitions this season, the French superstar has found himself at the centre of heavy criticism from supporters and sections of the media.
The situation worsened following Mbappe’s recent trip to Italy during his recovery from a hamstring injury.
Although the forward insists Real Madrid gave him permission to travel with his girlfriend, reports suggested some figures inside the club were unhappy with the timing ahead of El Clasico.
Meanwhile, tensions increased even further after Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory against Real Oviedo.
Mbappe returned from injury during that match. He came off the bench in the 69th minute before assisting Jude Bellingham for the second goal.
After the game, Mbappe openly discussed his current role in the team and appeared frustrated with his situation under Arbeloa. Mbappe said:
“I haven’t played because I’m the fourth striker in the squad for the coach. I accept and play the time they give me… I was there to be a starter.”
“No problem with Arbeloa. The coach’s decision must be respected. Everyone has their own idea and philosophy. I have to work to be better than Gonzalo, Mastantuono and Vini to play.”
However, Arbeloa quickly rejected Mbappe’s interpretation of the situation during his post-match press conference. The Real Madrid manager said:
“I did not tell Mbappé that he is my fourth attacker. Four days ago, he was out of El Clásico; he wasn’t even on the bench. So today, it’s only logical that he’s on the bench.”
Amid the growing controversy, Benfica manager Jose Mourinho was also asked about the feud during his Friday press conference.
The Portuguese coach could make a sensational return to Real Madrid if Arbeloa loses his job at the end of the season.
Jose Mourinho appeared to back Arbeloa while also showing sympathy for his former player. Speaking during the Benfica press conference, Mourinho said:
“It makes me sad because Arbeloa is a friend, he is one of those who gave soul and life when he was a player of mine. Now that he is the Real Madrid manager, our connection is even stronger.”
“Being a player is always easier than being the manager. But he won the game yesterday and I’m sure he is happy today.”
Interestingly, Mourinho also confirmed he will decide his own future after Benfica’s season ends on Sunday.
It will surely further fuelling speculation surrounding a possible return to the Santiago Bernabeu next season.
⚪️ MOURINHO, TAJANTE sobre la POLÉMICA entre ARBELOA Y MBAPPÉ:
❌ “Me duele…”
👉 “Si siempre existe mi conexión con el Madrid, cuando el entrenador es Álvaro…”
🗣️ @plazacasals pic.twitter.com/s6n5MzwGxN
— El Chiringuito TV (@elchiringuitotv) May 15, 2026
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
