Mbappé Advocates for Team Unity Amidst Madrid Fans’ Discontent

Kylian Mbappé has urged Real Madrid fans to focus their criticism on the team as a whole rather than targeting individual players. This plea comes in light of the discontent expressed towards Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham by the Bernabéu crowd during Saturday’s 2-0 LaLiga victory over Levante.

The Madrid supporters voiced their dissatisfaction following a challenging week for the team, which included a defeat in the Supercopa final and elimination from the Copa del Rey. Additionally, coach Xabi Alonso’s departure and replacement by Álvaro Arbeloa contributed to the tense atmosphere.

Mbappé stated in a news conference prior to the Champions League match against AS Monaco, “I understand the fans, but the only thing I haven’t liked is that if they want to whistle, they should whistle the whole squad. They shouldn’t single out one player. It’s the fault of the whole team. Madrid fans aren’t against us; they’re angry, which is understandable.”

Vinícius has faced a challenging season marked by inconsistent form, speculation regarding his future, and a public disagreement with Alonso following his reaction to being substituted during October’s Clásico. Mbappé defended his teammate, insisting, “It isn’t Vini’s fault if we aren’t playing well. If they want to whistle, let them whistle the whole squad. We need to change the situation. Vini, like anyone, is human. I have a lot of affection for him. We, as a team, must protect him better. He should know he will never be alone at Real Madrid.”

When questioned about potential unrest in the dressing room leading to Alonso’s exit, Mbappé expressed his disagreement with the notion that Alonso failed at Real Madrid. “Saying Xabi didn’t succeed isn’t true. He left before everything was decided. We lost the Supercopa and the Copa after he left. I believe Xabi will be a great coach. What happened is a decision of the club, and we must respect it.”

He further commented, “There are many things said that aren’t true, with some being only partially accurate. Our responsibility is to remain focused and perform on the pitch.”

Despite the team’s recent struggles, Mbappé highlighted Bellingham as “one of the best players in the world,” acknowledging the difficult times for both him and Vinícius. He stated, “We understand the public’s dissatisfaction, but they should extend the same treatment to everyone. It isn’t Jude’s fault; it’s our responsibility to rectify the situation.”

Coach Arbeloa, whose tenure has seen a cup defeat to second-tier Albacete alongside the recent win over Levante, affirmed that Vinícius will always play when available and in form. He commented, “What Vini wants, and what I hope for, is the support of the Bernabéu. He is a player with a big heart, and his emotional style of play needs the fans’ backing. I would love for that support to be there tomorrow.”