RismadarVoice Reporters
October 9, 2026
Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has strongly defended French striker Kylian Mbappé against criticism surrounding his activities during recovery from a knee injury, describing the controversy as ridiculous and insisting that the player had fulfilled his responsibilities to the club.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday ahead of Real Madrid’s La Liga encounter with Villarreal, Mourinho dismissed suggestions that Mbappé had acted unprofessionally by spending part of his recovery period in France and Switzerland.
The 27-year-old France captain sustained a hyperextension injury to his left knee during a UEFA Nations League match against Türkiye on September 25.
The injury subsequently forced him to withdraw from international duty and undergo medical examinations.
However, Mbappé attracted criticism after photographs emerged showing him outside a nightclub in Paris and riding a bicycle during a stay in Switzerland.
Some supporters questioned whether the activities were appropriate for a player recovering from injury, particularly after Mourinho had previously cautioned his squad against recreational activities that could increase the risk of injury.
Responding to the controversy, the Portuguese coach insisted that the criticism was unjustified.
Mourinho explained that Mbappé had returned to Real Madrid for medical examinations before travelling to France for an additional specialist consultation.
According to him, the decision to seek a second medical opinion was necessary because of the player’s previous knee problems.
He disclosed that the assessment conducted by the external specialist was consistent with the diagnosis reached by Real Madrid’s medical team.
The manager also clarified the circumstances surrounding Mbappé’s appearance at a Paris nightclub.
He explained that the venue had been converted to host a private event during Paris Fashion Week and that the player’s presence should not be interpreted as evidence of misconduct.
Addressing photographs of Mbappé riding a bicycle in Switzerland, Mourinho said the bicycles were provided by the hotel to enable guests to move between accommodation units and communal facilities.
He criticised attempts to portray the activity as an indication that the striker was disregarding medical advice.
Mourinho maintained that the French international had complied with the club’s recovery requirements and had not breached any professional obligations.
The Real Madrid manager also dismissed suggestions that Mbappé could face disciplinary action or be excluded from the team because of the controversy.
He assured supporters that the striker would be available for Saturday’s league fixture against Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu.
According to Mourinho, any player who failed to uphold the professional standards expected at Real Madrid would not be selected for matches.
He stressed that his decision to include Mbappé reflected his confidence in the player’s conduct and commitment to the club.
The controversy comes at a challenging period for Real Madrid, who are seeking to recover from their recent defeat to Atlético Madrid and reduce the gap between themselves and La Liga leaders Barcelona.
Mbappé, who returned to training on Wednesday, is expected to strengthen the team’s attacking options as domestic competition resumes following the international break.
The French striker has previously faced criticism from sections of the club’s supporters over matters unrelated to his performances.
Last month, members of the Ultras Sur supporters’ group criticised Mbappé and other players over their handling of shirts carrying a message of solidarity with residents of Ceuta, a Spanish territory in North Africa.
Despite the renewed scrutiny, Mourinho has maintained that Mbappé remains committed to Real Madrid and has met the professional standards required of him.
