Kylian Mbappe was notably absent from the La Liga clash between Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao, but that didn’t stop fans from making their displeasure known. Viral footage captured a wave of boos and whistles directed at the French star, despite him being sidelined for the match.
Real Madrid hosted Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Club in a crucial fixture as they aimed to stay in the La Liga title race following their disappointing UEFA Champions League exit against Arsenal. While the team remains in contention to edge out rivals Barcelona, frustration among the fan base has reached a boiling point.
Mbappe, who picked up an injury during the midweek clash with Arsenal, was already suspended for this game after receiving a red card against Deportivo Alaves. Though unavailable for selection, his appearance in the stands was enough to ignite the ire of the Santiago Bernabeu faithful.
As soon as Mbappe’s face appeared on the stadium screen, boos erupted throughout the stands. Many supporters appeared to blame the striker for the club’s Champions League elimination, expressing their discontent even though he played no part in the day’s action.
The criticism isn’t new. Mbappe was already jeered after being subbed off during the Arsenal match, but it was unclear whether that reaction was due to the substitution or his performance. This latest incident leaves little doubt—fans are directing their frustration squarely at the superstar forward.
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Mbappe now joins an exclusive list of Real Madrid legends, including Zinedine Zidane and Cristiano Ronaldo, who were also once booed at the Bernabéu. Despite his solid numbers—33 goals and 5 assists in 50 appearances this season—the striker is under scrutiny for what supporters see as a lack of impact in critical moments.
Will Mbappe be fit for the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona?
Real Madrid and Barcelona are set to renew their rivalry in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday, April 26. With the season hanging in the balance, Los Blancos will be desperate to finish on a high note—and they’ll want their biggest stars available.
According to Diario AS, Mbappe is expected to be fit in time for the final, but the club plans to hold him out of any matches beforehand as a precaution. That includes resting him for Wednesday’s La Liga match against Getafe, ensuring he recovers fully from the mild ankle sprain suffered in the Arsenal game.
