Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has dismissed public criticism surrounding Kylian Mbappé's off-field activities as "bizarre" while confirming that the French star forward will start in Saturday’s La Liga fixture against Villarreal.
Mbappé faced media scrutiny during his injury recovery period after posting videos of himself cycling during trips to Paris and Switzerland, despite club guidelines regarding secondary physical activities. Responding to journalists during Friday's pre-match press conference (October 9, 2026), Mourinho expressed frustration over the excessive media focus, arguing that larger global football stories—including Manchester City’s ongoing legal proceedings and national team developments in Portugal—were being overshadowed by minor distractions.
The Portuguese manager put an end to fitness concerns following Mbappé's minor injury setback sustained on September 25, confirming that the 27-year-old forward has fully recovered, fulfilled all professional obligations, and will feature in the starting XI against Villarreal rather than starting on the bench.
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