Real Madrid News
Real Madrid dressing room unrest grows over Mbappe’s situation – report
Tension appears to be building at Real Madrid, with a recent report from El Mundo pointing to growing unease in the dressing room and the spotlight is on Kylian Mbappe.
What has largely been a quiet period on the pitch has turned into a talking point off it.
In recent weeks, discussions inside the club have intensified, particularly around Mbappe’s injury situation and how his recovery is being managed.
While injuries are nothing new in football, the way this one has unfolded seems to have raised concerns among teammates.
Dressing room doubts begin to surface
Mbappe’s earlier knee issue had already triggered internal debates, even leading to adjustments within the medical setup earlier in the season.
Now, his latest muscle problem, considered relatively minor, has reopened those conversations.
The situation has become more sensitive due to his decision to travel to Italy and Paris during recovery.
Kylian Mbappé 🇫🇷 profite de son temps libre à Cagliari en Italie 🇮🇹 avec Ester Exposito 😁🥰 pic.twitter.com/KZv0HVNbeH
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) May 2, 2026
Initially, when he made the trip accompanied by club physiotherapists, it was understood and accepted within the squad. However, the reaction now appears more mixed.
Some players are struggling to understand why such travel is necessary for a minor injury, especially during a crucial stage of the season.
Raising eyebrows
There is added pressure because of the upcoming clash against Barcelona.
Mbappe had indicated that he would do everything possible to be fit for that match, but his recent movements have left some teammates questioning whether that promise fit in with his actions.
Even when players are given personal time, decisions are often judged through the lens of team responsibility and in this case, his actions are becoming part of the wider conversation.
Manager Alvaro Arbeloa had allowed the squad a few days off following the draw against Real Betis, and during this time, players are free to manage their time as they choose.
However, there is an unspoken expectation, and when results are not going as planned, scrutiny naturally increases.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
