Mbappé and Rüdiger incidents deepen Real Madrid crisis ahead of Clásico

Key facts

• Kylian Mbappé has scored 41 goals in 41 matches this season for Real Madrid.
• Mbappé was involved in a dispute with a coach during training on April 24 before the Real Betis match.
• Antonio Rüdiger instigated a heated argument with a teammate in the dressing room in April.
• Real Madrid trail Barcelona by 11 points with four rounds remaining.
• Barcelona will clinch the La Liga title if they avoid defeat on Sunday.
• An online petition calls for Mbappé to be sold, citing his commitment.
• Mbappé traveled to Sardinia with actor Ester Expósito during a recovery period.

Tensions boil over before decisive Clásico

Real Madrid's preparations for Sunday's Clásico against Barcelona have been overshadowed by a series of internal flashpoints involving senior players. The club, already reeling from Champions League and Copa del Rey eliminations, now faces a must-win match to keep faint La Liga hopes alive. With Barcelona 11 points clear and needing only a draw to seal the title, the atmosphere at the Valdebebas training ground has become increasingly strained.

Mbappé's Sardinia trip fuels criticism

Kylian Mbappé, the team's leading scorer with 41 goals in 41 appearances, has faced intense scrutiny after traveling to Sardinia with actor Ester Expósito last weekend. Spanish media and supporters questioned his dedication while he recovers from a hamstring injury sustained in the April 24 match against Real Betis. Mbappé's representatives issued a statement Tuesday defending his actions, stating that the criticism "does not reflect the reality of Kylian's commitment." Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa, when asked about the trip, said players are free to use their time off as they see fit, though his remarks were widely interpreted as indirect criticism.

Training ground confrontations

Two distinct incidents have contributed to the deteriorating mood. In April, Antonio Rüdiger was involved in a heated argument with another first-team player in the dressing room, which sources said was instigated by the German defender. Rüdiger later apologized and hosted a lunch for teammates and their families. A separate dispute occurred before the Real Betis match, when Mbappé clashed with a member of the coaching staff during a training exercise. The coach, acting as an assistant referee, called Mbappé offside, prompting an angry and insulting response from the Frenchman. Neither player has faced internal punishment, but the episodes have heightened tensions.

Fan discontent and online petition

Some Real Madrid supporters have grown frustrated with Mbappé, believing he is prioritizing France's World Cup campaign over the club's interests. An online petition has circulated, urging fans to call for his sale. "If you believe change is necessary, do not remain silent: sign this petition and defend what you believe is best for the future of the club," it reads. The petition reflects a broader unease among a segment of the fanbase, even as Mbappé's goal tally remains exceptional.

Club's response and injury uncertainty

Real Madrid has not confirmed whether Mbappé will be fit for indicate he visited the training center on a day off to continue his recovery. The club has declined to comment on the internal incidents, and Mbappé's representatives also did not respond to requests for comment. Arbeloa, in his post-match press conference after the 2-0 win over Espanyol, was asked about Mbappé three times, deflecting questions about the player's commitment.

What's at stake on Sunday

Sunday's Clásico carries enormous implications. A Barcelona win or draw would hand the Catalan club its first La Liga title since 2019, while a Real Madrid victory would delay the inevitable but keep their slim hopes alive. Beyond the title race, the match will test whether Madrid can set aside internal discord and focus on the pitch. The club's season, already devoid of Champions League and Copa del Rey glory, now hinges on pride and the potential to deny Barcelona a title celebration at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The bottom line

• Real Madrid faces internal discord involving Kylian Mbappé and Antonio Rüdiger ahead of the Clásico.
• Mbappé's trip to Sardinia during injury recovery has drawn criticism from fans and media.
• Mbappé and Rüdiger were involved in separate training ground disputes in April.
• Barcelona can clinch the La Liga title with a draw or win on Sunday.
• Mbappé has scored 41 goals in 41 matches this season, yet his commitment is questioned.
• An online petition calling for Mbappé's sale has gained traction among some fans.