Mbappé under fire after Paris outing with Hakimi during Real Madrid’s defeat to Getafe

Kylian Mbappé may have been absent from the pitch during Real Madrid’s 1-0 defeat to Getafe CF in La Liga on Monday night, but the French forward still found himself at the centre of controversy.

Mbappé is currently sidelined with a sprain in his left knee, an injury that has ruled him out of Real Madrid’s last two matches. Reports indicate he is expected to remain out of action for approximately three weeks as he undergoes treatment and rehabilitation.

While recovering in Paris, however, the striker was reportedly seen celebrating alongside Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain. According to the French outlet L’Equipe, Mbappé was having drinks with Hakimi and others in the French capital at the same time Real Madrid were involved in a crucial league fixture.

The timing of the outing sparked criticism, particularly after the defeat widened the gap between Real Madrid and league leaders Barcelona to four points in the title race. Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo reported that some observers questioned the player’s sense of responsibility, arguing that such behavior at a decisive stage of the season reflects poorly on his commitment.

Radio presenter Manu Carreño also weighed in during his program on Cadena SER, suggesting that Mbappé’s actions did not project the right image for a player expected to lead a major sporting project.

“There is a difference between who you really are and who you look like. If you are injured, it is normal to be on the field. If you are not, it is the same, as was published in France, where it was said that you went out with Achraf Hakimi, and I don’t know who else, for a drink in Paris while your team was playing,” he said.

He continued: “I think it’s a matter of commitment and image. Someone who aspires to lead a sports project, I don’t know if it’s the best image for him to go out and celebrate, even if he’s injured and can’t play.”

Mbappé and Hakimi share a well-documented friendship that dates back to their time together at Paris Saint-Germain, prior to the French captain’s move to Real Madrid in the summer of 2024. Nonetheless, the episode has reignited debate over professionalism and public perception at a critical juncture in the Spanish title race.