Real Madrid News
Real Madrid believe superstar forward is being unfairly targeted amid injury controversy
Real Madrid have moved to clarify Kylian Mbappe’s situation after the forward became the subject of renewed criticism following his trip to Paris during his recovery from injury.
In fact, according to L’Equipe, the club believes Mbappe has been unfairly targeted by sections of the media and supporters, despite the fact that his time in France was approved by the club.
It is to be noted that Mbappe suffered an injury while on international duty against Turkey and has subsequently been instructed to rest rather than continue with normal training.
Mbappe’s Paris trip was approved by Real Madrid
The images of Mbappe in a Paris nightclub with his partner, Ester Expósito, generated criticism in Spain, particularly because the France captain was away from Real Madrid’s training base.
However, as reported before, the club’s position is that there was no breach of the recovery programme.
🚨 MBAPPÉ, LESIONADO Y EN PARÍS.
— El Chiringuito TV (@elchiringuitotv) October 1, 2026
‼️ @marcosbenito9 adelantó que no ha ido a Valdebebas los últimos dos días. pic.twitter.com/uGNkIRr1xY
In fact, Real Madrid have authorised Mbappe to remain in France, with Jose Mourinho, the coaching staff and the medical department all aware of his plans.
The club also believes his current physical condition means there is little benefit in bringing him back to Valdebebas just to follow the usual training and physiotherapy routine.
Instead, rest is currently considered the appropriate course of action.
Real Madrid insist Mbappe is following his recovery plan
The forward’s rehabilitation is understood to have been agreed between Mbappe, Mourinho and the club’s medical staff.
Hence, rather than working through an intensive programme at Valdebebas, the current approach is centred on allowing the injury to settle before he resumes normal activity.
The plan has therefore been described within the club as coordinated and agreed by all parties.
That is why Madrid believe the criticism surrounding Mbappe’s trip to Paris does not reflect the reality of his situation.
From the club’s perspective, the player has followed the instructions given to him and has permission to spend his recovery period away from Spain.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
