Mbappe reveals reduced role at Real Madrid under Arbeloa

MADRID: France captain Kylian Mbappe has said he is currently the “fourth-choice” forward at Real Madrid under manager Alvaro Arbeloa after being left out of the starting line-up in Thursday’s 2-0 win over Real Oviedo.

Mbappe, who returned from a hamstring injury and was left on the bench for Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Barcelona, came on in the 68th minute after Arbeloa opted to start Vinicius Junior and Gonzalo Garcia in attack.

The French striker insisted his omission was not fitness-related.

“I’m 100% fine. I haven’t played because for the coach I’ve been the fourth striker in the squad behind (Franco) Mastantuono, Vini and Gonzalo,” Mbappe told reporters.

“I was ready to start, it’s his decision and it always has to be respected.”

“I have no problem at all with Arbeloa. You have to accept the coach’s philosophy and I have to do better to play ahead of Vini, Gonzalo and Mastantuono.”

Mbappe has faced scrutiny from sections of the fanbase following reports he travelled to Sardinia during his recovery, although he said the club had authorised the trip.

Arbeloa, however, defended his selection decision, saying Mbappe could not be rushed back into the starting XI after missing the Barcelona match.

“I had a conversation with him before the game and I don’t know what he could have interpreted,” Arbeloa told reporters.

“For me it is very clear that a player who four days ago could not be on the bench (against Barcelona), today should not start. Especially because it’s not a final, it’s not a game of life or death.”

The Real Madrid coach added that Mbappe is expected to return to the starting line-up for Sunday’s trip to Sevilla.