Mbappé says Arbeloa told him he’s been demoted to fourth striker.

Kylian Mbappé voiced his frustration with Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa after learning that he has been relegated to the fourth spot among the club’s forwards.

The French striker, who had just returned from a thigh injury, was listed on the bench for Real Madrid’s decisive victory against relegated Real Oviedo.

After the match, Mbappé said that Arbeloa had told him he now ranks below Vinícius Júnior, Gonzalo García, and Franco Mastantuono in the forward hierarchy.

“I was ready to start, but Arbeloa told me I am now the fourth striker.”

“I accept it; we must respect the coach’s decisions. I will work even harder.”

“Arbeloa mentioned that I am the fourth striker behind Vini Jr, Gonzalo, and Mastantuono.”

“I remember people saying I should rest in the Copa del Rey because I was playing too often… and then we were knocked out by a lower‑division side.”

“I do not watch Arbeloa’s press conferences. At home I have French TV, not Spanish TV.”

Some supporters have criticised Mbappé in recent weeks for what they perceive as a lack of commitment, even though he remains the club’s leading scorer this season.

Madrid are likely to end a second consecutive season without a major trophy after FC Barcelona clinched the league title following last weekend’s El Clásico win.

Arbeloa’s future at the Santiago Bernabéu remains uncertain, with reports suggesting former manager José Mourinho could return.

Vanguard News

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