Kylian Mbappé is scoring freely this season. Yet talk about his future simply will not die down.
A bike ride in Switzerland has sparked fresh criticism. At the same time, a Spanish report claims he may seek an exit in 2027. So, how serious is this story? Here is what we know.
Another Injury, Another Row
Mbappé hyperextended his knee on France duty. Madrid (1.39) then let him recover away from the club. Soon after, he posted Instagram pictures of himself riding a bike in Switzerland. Some people saw this as defiance, because Mourinho reportedly wanted something different.
The Spanish press reacted fast. MARCA even asked fans for their views on “bicycle-gate”. Meanwhile, L’Équipe reported that some people close to Madrid want Mbappé to keep a lower profile. It added that Mourinho asked him to be more discreet. However, nobody has explained exactly what that means.
A Pattern Fans Still Remember
This is not the first time his habits have caused a stir. In spring, Mbappé took a holiday in Sardinia with girlfriend Ester Expósito. He was recovering from a hamstring problem at the time. The club gave him permission to go.
Even so, many fans disliked the timing. Madrid were going through a tough spell, so the trip looked poor. An online petition followed, calling for Mbappé to leave. It gathered a large number of signatures. As a result, the bike pictures landed on very sore ground.
What the Fichajes Report Says
Fichajes, a Spanish outlet, says Mbappé may leave in 2027. It claims he will ask to go if Madrid fail to fix his unhappiness by the end of the season. The report then names Arsenal (1.41) and Liverpool (2.95) as clubs watching closely.
It also quotes journalist Daniel Riolo. He says the 27-year-old doubts that the squad can compete at the highest level. Still, we should stay careful here. This is one report, and neither the player nor the club has confirmed it. Reports like this also often push for change at a club.
The Numbers Tell a Mixed Story
Mbappé’s form is not the problem. He has 94 goals in 111 appearances for Real. This season, he has seven league goals in seven matches under Mourinho. So his output remains elite.
The team’s results, however, look far weaker. Madrid lost the derby before the international break. They now sit six points behind Barcelona. Barcelona also finished above them in consecutive La Liga seasons. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain (2.70) won back-to-back Champions League titles after Mbappé left. His former teammate Ousmane Dembélé has also won a Ballon d’Or already.
Why a Move Could Tempt Him
Mbappé clearly wants the biggest prizes. He won Ligue 1 in 2016-17 and then added six more league titles at PSG. He also won the 2018 World Cup and finished runner-up in 2022. Yet the last two years in Madrid have been turbulent and short of major honours.
The club has also faced turmoil off the pitch. Player power led to the exit of Xabi Alonso last season. Madrid then re-hired Mourinho. Because France are still 20 months from the next Euros, club football will shape the Ballon d’Or race. A move to the Premier League could give him a big stage for both goals.
Who Could Afford Mbappé?
Very few clubs can meet his demands. Barcelona are out of the question. Bayern Munich (1.10) are tied to Harry Kane. Outside Saudi Arabia, that leaves a short list.
Liverpool reportedly came close to signing him before he chose Madrid. Their pay structure may now have room, because Mohamed Salah has left. France teammate Bradley Barcola also plays there. Arsenal offer a London option with strong ambitions. Either way, any deal would need huge money.
So, Will He Actually Go?
For now, nothing is confirmed. Mbappé has not asked to leave, and Madrid have not spoken. A lot can change before the season ends. Wins, trophies and a calmer dressing room could all ease the doubts.
Still, the warning signs are there. A frustrated star, a struggling team and strong rival interest make a dangerous mix. Mourinho therefore has months, not years, to settle the situation. Fans will watch every move, and every bike ride, very closely.
Easybet supports responsible gambling. Betting is for players aged 18 and over. If gambling stops being fun, call the National Responsible Gambling Programme toll-free on 0800 006 008.
