Spanish Super Cup 2026: Kylian Mbappé slammed ahead of the final

11.01.26 FT Spanish Super Cup

Barcelona

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Real Madrid

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Kylian Mbappé is facing heavy criticism just hours before the 2026 Spanish Super Cup final.

Last Thursday, Kylian Mbappé missed the semi-final of the Spanish Super Cup against Atlético due to knee issues. Ultimately, the Frenchman made the trip to Jeddah to join his teammates. However, the Bondy native is clearly not there just to make up the numbers. Xabi Alonso explained that he is fit to play: "He has the same chance of playing as everyone who was called up."

But this rapid return by the French star has sparked criticism in Spain. "Mbappé is in Arabia because he decided he’s going to play, it feels like he’s the one who chooses when he plays or not," said journalist Aritz Gabilondo on Cadena SER. "The person responsible for this situation is Mbappé’s selfishness. He decided to try to break Cristiano’s record and nobody stopped him. That’s why we’re here today," added his colleague Jorge Pulido.

Indeed, others are puzzled as to why Mbappé didn’t travel with the rest of the squad for the semi if there was already a chance he’d be fit for the final. Real Madrid’s handling of the situation is also being called into question.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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