Real Madrid head coach Alvero Arbeloa has shared his thoughts on the controversial online petition against striker, Kylian Mbappe. The petition tagged “Mbappe out” demanded the removal of Mbappe from Real Madrid’s squad and has already surpassed its initial target for signatures with at least 33 million signatures.
Mbappe is the team’s highest goalscorer this season, but has recently come under fire for his actions both on and off the pitch. The Frenchman travelled to Italy after he was given time off to recover from a thigh injury sustained last month which could rule him out of the El Clasico on Sunday. He was spotted actress Ester Exposito on a yacht in Sardinia, sparking backlash against his perceived lack of commitment.
However, Arbeloa brushed aside the petition at a recent press conference, stating that player had the liberty to do whatever is appropriate at his free time.
“All planning with injured players is supervised by the medical staff,” Arbeloa said after Real’s win over Espanyol on Sunday. “In his free time, Mbappe can do whatever he considers appropriate, like any other player.”
While there is no exact date on when the “Mbappe out” petition was created, the goal was to reach 200,000 signatures but it seems to have gained traction on Tuesday.
The petition on the single-page website said: “Madridistas, make your voice heard. If you believe change is needed, don’t stay silent – sign this petition and stand for what you think is best for the club’s future.” It also displayed a photo of a grinning Mbappe splattered with a neon red sign saying, “Fuera” – out.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid is yet to react to the petition, with reports suggesting “Mbappe out” would not lead to any action. However, the club has been monitoring Mbappe’s recovery.
