Real Madrid forwards Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham have reportedly put last season’s tensions behind them, with Jose Mourinho credited as one of the factors behind the improved relationship between the two players.
The pair were involved in a strained relationship during the previous campaign, with disagreements between the France international and the England midfielder reaching a particularly uncomfortable point. However, Spanish television programme El Chiringuito has reported that the situation has changed significantly this season and that Mbappe and Bellingham are now “on very good terms”.
The development is another indication that Mourinho’s attempt to restore calm within the Real Madrid dressing room is beginning to produce results. The Portuguese manager returned to the club’s bench this summer, partly with the aim of easing tensions that had affected the team during a troubled previous season.
Real Madrid endured a series of internal problems last term and ended the campaign without a trophy. Several prominent players reportedly clashed with Xabi Alonso, contributing to the manager’s dismissal. A dispute between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni also attracted widespread international attention, while Alvaro Arbeloa experienced difficulties with a number of players, including Mbappe.
Mourinho’s arrival was therefore viewed as an important attempt to improve the atmosphere around the squad. So far, the results have been positive on the pitch, with Real Madrid winning all three of their opening La Liga matches.
Reports in Spain suggest that the mood inside the team has also improved. Mourinho’s management style is understood to be slightly less severe than during his first spell at Real Madrid, an approach said to have been welcomed by some of the club’s senior players. At the same time, the manager is reportedly maintaining strict standards in specific areas, including the intensity of training sessions.
El Chiringuito has now provided further details about the changes in the squad, claiming that several players have begun to repair previously damaged relationships. The programme stopped short of revealing all the details and hinted that more information could be discussed during a future broadcast.
Mbappe and Bellingham have been seen celebrating goals together on several occasions this season. Their joint celebrations have appeared energetic and friendly, offering a visible contrast to the reports of friction between them last season.
The apparent reconciliation will be welcomed by Mourinho, who understands the importance of cooperation between two of Real Madrid’s most influential players. A strong connection between Mbappe and Bellingham could be central to the club’s ambitions as it attempts to win major honours this season.
The improvement in their relationship also forms part of a broader effort to prevent the internal disputes that undermined Real Madrid last term from returning. While the club’s early run of three consecutive league victories does not settle the larger questions around the team, the change in atmosphere has given Mourinho an encouraging start to his latest period in charge.
