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Kylian Mbappe responded to a fresh wave of criticism in Spain, insisting on Tuesday that he remains fully committed to recovering from his latest injury.
The Real Madrid and France forward is sidelined by a left hamstring problem which casts doubt on his availability for Sunday’s clásico in Barcelona, the biggest game in Spanish football.
During his day off, Mbappé reportedly traveled to Italy with actress Ester Expósito last weekend, leading to criticism in Spanish media that he may not be taking his rehabilitation seriously.
Madrid fans also questioned why the league’s best striker was on holiday ahead of the clásico.
Mbappé denied any wrongdoing through a statement from his representatives sent to the Associated Press.
“Part of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly monitored by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day in the team,” the statement reads.
Disgruntled Real Madrid supporters believe Mbappé is saving himself for the World Cup, which starts in five weeks.
He also received criticism earlier in the season when he was unable to play due to a knee ailment.
Madrid have little to play for in the latter part of the season.
The club have been eliminated in the Champions League and Copa del Rey, and are largely out of contention in La Liga as they trail Barcelona by 11 points with four rounds remaining.
Barcelona can play on Sunday.
Madrid have not yet said whether Mbappé will be fit and available for the clásico.
Spanish media say Mbappé went to Madrid’s training center on a day off to continue his recovery.
Report from the Associated Press.
