Real Madrid News
Mbappe talks Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, fitness, criticism – ‘In Spain, they’re a little worried I won’t play’
Kylian Mbappe has found himself under intense scrutiny in recent weeks, but the Real Madrid forward has now addressed the growing criticism with clarity and confidence.
Speaking during international duty with France in an interview with Telefoot (h/t MARCA), the striker opened up about his recent struggles and the noise surrounding his performances.
The criticism largely comes from a difficult period following his return from a knee injury.
During his recovery, questions were raised about his priorities, with some suggesting that his focus was more on being fit for the World Cup than delivering for Real Madrid.
Mbappe did not shy away from addressing those claims.
“In Spain, they’re a little worried that I won’t play. They think I’ll go straight to the World Cup,” he began.
He followed that up by stating what he believes is the best preparation for any international tournament.
“The best way to arrive at the World Cup in top form is to win everything with Real Madrid.”
Facing Bayern Munich
Despite the doubts, Mbappe pointed out that the season is far from over and that there is still plenty to fight for.
Real Madrid remain in contention for major honours, and the focus within the squad is on finishing strong.
“We’re still in contention in the two remaining competitions, LaLiga and the Champions League.”
Looking ahead, the French forward also addressed the challenge awaiting them in Europe, which is the Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich.
“We’re going to play Bayern, who I think are the team in the best form in Europe right now.”
Even so, Mbappe made it clear that belief within the squad remains unshaken.
“But if there’s one team that can beat that sort of side, it’s Real Madrid.”
On Real Madrid move
Mbappe also reflected on the environment surrounding him since arriving in Spain.
The expectations, scrutiny, and constant debate are all part of life at one of the world’s biggest clubs.
“People are very passionate. For them, Real Madrid is a religion.
“Anything to do with the club and me creates a buzz that gets everyone talking and speculating. Sometimes rightly so, sometimes not.”
Rather than resisting that pressure, the forward appears to have embraced it.
He acknowledged that criticism is inevitable when playing at this level and that even the greatest names in the club’s history have faced it.
“At Real Madrid, everyone has been criticised – Cristiano Ronaldo, everyone. I don’t see why I should be spared that sort of criticism.”
Finally, Mbappe explained how he approaches these moments mentally, focusing on improvement rather than outside noise.
“You have to deal with the criticism. Stay calm, focus on the work and have the confidence to believe that you can improve the situation on the pitch.”
Real Madrid have identified the midfield department as a key area of the squad that needs strengthening next year.
Having failed to sign Rodri this past summer, the Merengues understand that a major signing is necessary in the position.
Several names have already been linked as potential targets for the Spanish capital club, one of whom happens to be AFC Bournemouth rising star Alex Scott.
Indeed, Real Madrid have scouted the England international this season and are continuing to closely monitor his development in the Premier League.
However, competition for the 23-year-old midfielder’s services is already heating up.
AC Milan eye Alex Scott
Indeed, according to Tutto Mercato (h/t AS), Italian giants AC Milan have set their sights on Scott to replace Real Madrid legend Luka Modric next season.
Modric, at 41, is entering the final phase of his career and his contract with the Rossoneri stands to expire at the end of the ongoing campaign.
As such, the Serie A heavyweights will need to rope in a replacement and have seemingly identified Scott, who is also on Real Madrid’s radar, as an option.
Apart from AC Milan, even Chelsea and Liverpool have also shown interest in the 23-year-old England star, and might even be willing to make a move for him in January.
This complicates the situation for Real Madrid, who would ideally wait until the summer of 2027 to reinforce their midfield unit.
€50 million for Scott?
Furthermore, the report states that Scott is valued by Bournemouth at around €50 million, a fee that could be an issue for AC Milan.
That figure, however, should not pose a challenge for Real Madrid. Nonetheless, the increasing competition for the 23-year-old’s services could drive up the price further, making things complicated.
For now, though, Real Madrid’s interest in Scott has been limited to scouting and monitoring his progress and compiling reports on him.
Whether it translates into a formal approach and offer in the summer or in January itself remains to be seen.
