Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has dismissed recent criticism of French forward Kylian Mbappe’s conduct during the international break as “ridiculous”, according to a statement made in a recent interview.
Mourinho, who leads the Spanish giants, said the backlash against Mbappe – who was on international duty with France – was unwarranted and exaggerated. “The criticism is ridiculous,” he told reporters, adding that the player’s actions during the break have been blown out of proportion.
The remarks come amid ongoing public and media scrutiny of high‑profile players’ off‑field behaviour during periods when national teams are playing. While specific allegations were not detailed in Mourinho’s comments, the manager’s defence underscores the intense spotlight that stars such as Mbappe face.
International breaks, scheduled by FIFA, give clubs a pause while players represent their countries in qualifiers or friendlies. It is common for fans and pundits to evaluate both on‑field performances and personal conduct during these intervals.
Mourinho’s defence of Mbappe highlights the broader debate over the balance between a player’s professional responsibilities and personal freedom, a conversation that continues to resonate across European football.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>