The French forward returned to training a day earlier than expected after suffering a knee injury while on international duty. However, the move has not eased the scrutiny surrounding him, following reports that he visited a nightclub in Paris and later went cycling in Switzerland while recovering.
The French newspaper L’Équipe reported that his behaviour and the way he manages his public image have caused increasing frustration around the Madrid club. Critics have questioned whether the forward has fully adapted to the expectations that come with playing for Real Madrid.
One concern is that Mbappé’s individual ambitions and communication have become a distraction, despite his impressive scoring record. He has reportedly scored 94 goals in 111 appearances for Madrid, but has yet to win a major trophy with the club, a statistic that has intensified scrutiny of his contribution to the team’s wider objectives.
A source quoted by the newspaper argued that Mbappé had not fully understood the culture surrounding the club and was receiving poor advice.
The reaction has also focused on his decision to share images of his activities while injured. Although cycling can form part of an athlete’s conditioning, the timing of the footage led some supporters to question whether he was respecting the recovery process.
French broadcaster RMC Sport has also given considerable attention to the controversy. Journalist Daniel Riolo described the latest incidents as another addition to a growing list of public relations problems and questioned whether Mbappé was managing the pressures around him effectively.
Riolo argued that the forward needed to consider the message his actions sent to supporters, particularly at a time when Madrid have been under pressure to improve their performances.
He also questioned whether the player’s focus on individual recognition, including the Ballon d’Or, was affecting his relationship with the wider football community. Those comments remain opinion rather than evidence of Mbappé’s private state of mind.
The criticism comes amid a difficult period for Madrid, whose recent results have increased the pressure on the squad. Mbappé remains one of the team’s most productive players, but the debate now extends beyond goals to his public conduct and the expectations attached to his position.
Speculation about a possible departure at the end of the season has emerged, although no decision or formal move has been confirmed. For now, Mbappé’s priority is to recover from injury and return to the pitch, while Madrid seek a response to the growing scrutiny.