Kylian Mbappe criticised in Spain after Paris night out during injury recovery

Kylian Mbappe has faced a fresh wave of criticism in Spain after being seen on a night out in Paris with actress Ester Exposito while recovering from injury.

The Real Madrid forward travelled to the French capital on Wednesday evening, having left the France camp after suffering an injury to his left knee following the match against Turkey, in which he scored. Real Madrid subsequently announced that he had suffered an overstretching injury to the back of the knee.

Spanish media have questioned the timing of Mbappe’s appearance at a Paris nightclub. Reports said the injury required complete rest and that Real Madrid had given him permission not to attend training at the club’s Valdebebas base, but his return to Paris has nevertheless reignited doubts about his professionalism and conduct away from the pitch.

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, this was not the first time Mbappe had spent time away from Madrid while recovering from an injury.

David Sanchez, a journalist with Radio Marca, criticised the France international while acknowledging his exceptional ability.

Sanchez said Mbappe could have returned to Madrid and been seen at the club’s training centre, which would have created a more positive impression among supporters about his commitment to his recovery programme. Instead, he argued, appearing in Paris again risked damaging the player’s image.

Juanma Castano also questioned Mbappe’s decision on radio station Cadena COPE. He said an immediate return to Madrid would have sent a different message to Real Madrid fans, particularly as uncertainty surrounding the injury continues to generate debate.

The latest criticism follows a similar controversy from last season, when Mbappe travelled to Sardinia with his girlfriend during a previous spell on the sidelines. That trip prompted questions in the Spanish press about the player’s commitment.

Despite the growing scrutiny, reports from television programme El Chiringuito claim Mbappe is in contention to start for Real Madrid against Villarreal.

That possibility comes as debate continues over his behaviour and the effect his activities away from football may have on his relationship with the club’s supporters.