Florentino Perez defends Kylian Mbappe amid Real Madrid’s inconsistent season

Florentino Perez has come out strongly in defence of Kylian Mbappe, insisting the French star is not to blame for Real Madrid’s uneven season.

The club president argued that expectations were simply unrealistic after Mbappe’s high-profile arrival.

“People expected that with Mbappe, Real Madrid would be better,” Perez admitted. “This year hasn’t gone as we wanted, but we’ve also accomplished things. It all started with the Club World Cup. We haven’t been able to recover our fitness.” He stressed that Mbappe remains central to Madrid’s plans, pointing to his scoring record. “Mbappe is a player that Real Madrid has right now. He won the Golden Boot, so it’s not like he’s lacking goals. But we have to improve.”

Perez also touched on the painful Champions League exit to Bayern Munich, hinting at frustration over refereeing decisions without directly accusing officials of bias. “We’re hurting from the Champions League; that referee they assigned us I have to believe he didn’t do it maliciously,” he said.

Asked about perceived campaigns against him and the club, Perez was defiant, recalling past media battles and making clear he has no intention of stepping aside. “Do you want to continue? Of course. And to win many more European Cups. Do you also think I’m sick?” he replied, underlining his determination to lead Madrid through the current storm.