Mourinho Calls Criticism of Mbappe 'Ridiculous'

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho said the criticism of Kylian Mbappe for his activities during the international break is "ridiculous".

Mbappe pulled out of the France team after injuring himself against Turkey on September 25. Later, he caught attention for posting pictures of himself at a Paris Fashion Week event and riding a bicycle.

Mourinho had earlier said cycling was against his rules, but he defended Mbappe. He noted that Real Madrid players did what they were supposed to during the break.

According to BBC Sport on Friday, Mourinho stated, "When it comes to Real Madrid, it’s always different."

"But all the players did exactly what they were supposed to during the break. And then you always want to look for more problems and issues."

Mourinho highlighted that players who don’t meet the club's standards would face consequences.

"What I can promise is when a Real Madrid player doesn’t behave the way a Real Madrid player is supposed to and when he fails at that and he stops being a Real Madrid player for 24 hours, you will not see that player on the bench because he will be at home," he added.

Mourinho also rejected claims that Mbappe was irresponsible after photos showed the forward riding a bicycle in Switzerland. He explained that bicycles were available for guests at his hotel for short trips.

When asked if the media attention on Mbappe was too much, Mourinho said, "Exaggerated, no, I think it was ridiculous."

He added that if Mbappe plays in Real Madrid's next match, it would mean he has met his responsibilities to the club.

"If Mbappe plays tomorrow, it’s because he hasn’t failed Real Madrid and he hasn’t failed to fulfil his obligations to the club," Mourinho said.

Real Madrid is six points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona after seven games. This makes it crucial for the team to stay consistent as the season goes on.

Mbappe, 27, is still a top contender for this year's Ballon d'Or. He scored 42 goals in 44 games for Real Madrid last season, even though the club did not win any trophies.

The France captain also earned the Golden Boot at the World Cup with 10 goals, bringing his total at the tournament to a record 22, despite France finishing fourth.