Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has revealed that, after the 2-0 win over Oviedo, coach Alvaro Arbeloa considers him only the fourth striker in the team, after Mastantuono, Vinicius, and Gonzalo.
The player said he respects the coach’s decision, but expected to be in the starting lineup. Mbappe also added that he does not follow the coach’s press conferences, as he only watches French TV channels at home.
In response, Alvaro Arbeloa denied saying such a thing to Mbappe, suggesting that the player misunderstood him. The coach clarified that leaving Mbappe on the bench was purely a tactical decision related to the player’s fitness and avoiding risks.
“I’m the head coach, and I decide who goes on the field,” Arbeloa emphasized, adding that he is understanding of a player who is dissatisfied with his playing time.
