Tension continues to rise inside Real Madrid, and a new controversy has now erupted involving Kylian Mbappé and manager Álvaro Arbeloa.

Following the recent altercation between Aurélien Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde, the Spanish giants are once again surrounded by drama, this time over Mbappé’s benching against Real Oviedo.

Mbappé points to Arbeloa over benching

After the match, Mbappé insisted he was fully fit and revealed the explanation he claims Arbeloa gave him.

“I’m fine. One hundred percent”.

The former Paris Saint-Germain forward said the coach told him he was currently the fourth striker in the squad.

“The coach told me I’m the fourth striker in the team”.

Mbappé mentioned Vinícius, Mastantuono, Brahim and Gonzalo ahead of him in the pecking order.

“I have to work hard to become a starter”.

Arbeloa denies Mbappé’s version

Arbeloa was immediately asked about Mbappé’s comments and firmly denied the interpretation.

“I spoke with Mbappé before the match and I don’t know what he may have misunderstood”.

The Real Madrid coach insisted the decision was based on fitness and match context.

“Someone who hadn’t played four days ago couldn’t start today”.

Arbeloa also denied ever calling Mbappé the fourth striker.

“I don’t even have four strikers and I never said such a thing”.

Another crisis at Real Madrid

The situation comes during an especially tense period for Real Madrid, with boos at the Santiago Bernabéu, disappointing results and internal conflicts.

Now, the public exchange between Mbappé and Arbeloa has only increased the perception of a fractured dressing room.

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