Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa dismissed Mbappe’s claims following their 2-0 win over Oviedo. The Frenchman alleged the coach told him he was the fourth-choice forward.
Mbappe’s remarks after Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Oviedo became the centre of attention during the post-match press conference at the Santiago Bernabeu. Alvaro Arbeloa, entering the room composed, appeared taken aback when questioned about the French forward’s comments. Mbappe had alleged that the coach referred to him as “the fourth-choice forward” in the squad, which he claimed explained his omission from the starting XI. Arbeloa categorically denied the accusation.
“I would love to have four forwards. Honestly, I don’t know where this is coming from because I don’t have four forwards, nor did I say that. He must have misunderstood. I never told him he was the fourth-choice forward,” the coach stated firmly.
“If I don’t select him, he doesn’t play—it’s as simple as that. I’m the coach, and I make the decisions. Four days ago, he wasn’t even fit enough for the bench (in the ‘Clasico’), and today’s match wasn’t a final. He will be the first-choice forward, as I’ve already said. I have no issues with anyone. I understand that players who don’t feature aren’t happy, but my decisions are based on the circumstances. It was the most logical and prudent choice not to take risks, especially with another game in three days,” Arbeloa explained.
When pressed further, Arbeloa reiterated there was no rift with the player: “I decided he wouldn’t play because, just four days ago, he wasn’t fit enough to be on the bench. Gonzalo earned his chance to play. As long as I’m in charge, I will decide who plays, regardless of their name. Names don’t influence my decisions. If people agree, that’s fine. If not, they’ll have to wait for the next opportunity,” he stressed.
“This isn’t something unique to Kylian; it has happened with other players too. It’s all down to the circumstances. I’m completely at ease and have a clear conscience. I’m not bothered if people disagree with my choices,” he added.
Finally, addressing the boos aimed at Vinicius, Arbeloa brought Mbappe into the conversation, reassuring that the club “has faith in them” and that, in time, “the applause will return.”