Real Madrid : Carvajal sidelined, Mbappé under scrutiny

Dani Carvajal is going through a difficult period at Real Madrid despite the team’s seventh consecutive La Liga victory. The veteran right-back remains on the bench after a serious knee injury in October 2024 affected his performances.

Tensions with former teammate Álvaro Arbeloa, who favors younger players like David Jiménez and Trent Alexander-Arnold, have grown, highlighting a shift in the dressing room hierarchy. With the World Cup approaching and his contract expiring in June, uncertainty hangs over Carvajal’s future.

Kylian Mbappé has also found himself in the spotlight after verbal outbursts toward referees during Real Madrid’s win over Valencia. Captured off-field and widely reported by French media L’Equipe, these incidents have not led to disciplinary action but are fueling criticism in Spain. Despite strong individual and team performances, the French striker’s repeated clashes with officials are beginning to tarnish his reputation and raise questions about his attitude.

The situation underlines a period of internal tension at Real Madrid, where veteran players like Carvajal face uncertainty while emerging stars like Mbappé navigate scrutiny. As the season progresses, the club must manage these dynamics carefully to maintain cohesion and focus on their domestic and European objectives.