The striker has come under criticism in recent weeks, with sections of the fanbase questioning his professionalism during recovery from a thigh injury—particularly after reports that he travelled to Sardinia during his rehabilitation period. The situation has intensified frustration among supporters already disillusioned by Madrid’s underwhelming campaign.
The timing has only sharpened the focus on Mbappé, who missed Sunday’s El Clásico defeat to Barcelona, a result that officially handed the Catalan side the La Liga title and confirmed a trophyless season for Los Blancos.
Speaking ahead of Thursday’s league fixture against relegated Real Oviedo, Arbeloa made it clear he expects the Frenchman to use the remaining matches to reassert his role within the squad.
“If he’s there and can complete the training session and is available, then he’ll definitely get some minutes… and the chance in these three games to keep showing the commitment he has to the club,” he told reporters.
The coach, a former Madrid player himself and a figure deeply associated with the club’s identity, stressed that he expects full dedication from every member of the squad—especially a player of Mbappé’s stature and responsibility.
He added that his expectation is simple: the forward should contribute on the pitch and lead by example in the closing games of the season.
The pressure is unlikely to ease at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Mbappé could face a hostile reception from sections of the crowd still frustrated by Madrid’s failure to compete for silverware this season.
Despite the criticism, Arbeloa defended the general professionalism within the squad, insisting he does not doubt the effort of any player wearing the Madrid shirt.
“All my players (have), I couldn’t think otherwise, I couldn’t believe that a Real Madrid player doesn’t give absolutely everything he has for the club, because then he wouldn’t know where he is,” he said.
With only a few matches left, Madrid’s focus has shifted from title ambitions to managing scrutiny, restoring confidence, and assessing how key players respond under pressure. Mbappé’s performances in this closing stretch are now under particular watch as the club looks to avoid ending the season on an even more turbulent note.