Betis' Natan guards Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe during a La Liga soccer match between Real Betis and Real Madrid in Seville, Spain, Friday, April 24, 2026.
Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe reacts during a La Liga soccer match between Real Betis and Real Madrid in Seville, Spain, Friday, April 24, 2026.
Jose Breton - AP
Betis' Natan guards Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe during a La Liga soccer match between Real Betis and Real Madrid in Seville, Spain, Friday, April 24, 2026.
The Real Madrid and France forward is sidelined by a left hamstring issue which is casting doubt about his availability for Sunday's clasico in Barcelona, the biggest match in Spanish soccer.
“Part of the criticism is based on an overinterpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team,” the statement read.
He also drew criticism earlier this season when he couldn't play because of a knee ailment.
Madrid has little to play for in the final stretch of the season. It has been eliminated in the Champions League and the Copa del Rey, and is virtually out of contention in La Liga as it trails Barcelona by 11 points with four rounds remaining. Barcelona could clinch on Sunday.
AP Sports Writer Tales Azzoni in Madrid contributed.
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