The Intriguing Absence of Kylian Mbappe from Real Madrid Training Following Xabi Alonso's Departure
Kylian Mbappe was notably missing from Real Madrid's recent training session after the departure of head coach Xabi Alonso. Learn about the events leading up to this absence and the implications for the Real Madrid squad.

Kylian Mbappe played no part in Real Madrid’s first training session since taking the decision to part with head coach Xabi Alonso. He was relieved of his duties in the wake of a Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona, with the axe falling within 24 hours of that setback in Saudi Arabia being suffered. Reins have been passed to Alvaro Arbeloa on an interim basis, but he is not yet working with French superstar Mbappe.Following an eventful couple of days for Real, the Blancos returned to training on Tuesday - ahead of a Copa del Rey clash with Albacete on Wednesday. Sweeping changes are expected to be made to their team when facing second tier opposition.The likelihood is that Mbappe would not have featured in that contest even if he was fully fit. He has, however, been nursing a knee injury of late and was only named on the bench for a meeting with Barcelona in the Middle East.He was introduced during the second-half of that fixture, as Real found themselves chasing the game and more major silverware, but made little impact in a 3-2 defeat. The World Cup winner is now being granted another rest.It was noted by ESPN that the France international did not form part of the group being put through their paces by Arbeloa in Valdebebas. That absence is likely to be addressed when Arbeloa faces the press.While Mbappe has not been seen in public since Alonso was fired, he has broken his silence on social media. The 27-year-old posted in response to a stunning change in the dugout at Santiago Bernabeu: “It’s been short but it was a pleasure to play for you and learn from you. Thank you for giving me the confidence since Day 1. I will remember you as a manager who had clear ideas and knows many things about football. Best of luck for your next chapter.”Mbappe enjoyed plenty of success under Alonso, with 29 goals and five assists being recorded across 25 games. He is, however, said to be one of those that butted heads with the former Liverpool and Real midfielder.Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!Mbappe was branded a “disgrace” by online viewers that saw him wave team-mates away from a guard of honour at the end of Real's cup final defeat to Clasico foes Barca. Alonso had been encouraging his players to line up and pay their respects to arch-rivals.Barcelona president Joan Laporta said of those antics: “I’m surprised by what Mbappe did. In victory and defeat, you have to be generous and respectful. This is sport and you have to behave normally. I think that we were generous in victory and respected the opposing team. That’s why I can’t understand it.“The truth is that I didn’t see that moment with Mbappe on the pitch, but I understand that it must have been a very difficult moment. They must have been very upset and that’s why there was that reaction.”Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingMeanwhile, Guillem Balague has been discussing what went wrong for Alonso in his column for BBC Sport. He admits that Mbappe, who became another ‘Galactico’ at the Bernabeu in 2024, was part of the problem.Balague said: “Mbappe chased records, not always what he needed to recover from his latest injury, playing to equal Cristiano Ronaldo's 59 goals in a calendar year.“Alonso never managed to convince the players his way was the right way. And without that, he could not impose the high press, the tempo, the positional football that defined his Leverkusen side.”Balague added on what comes next for the Blancos: “Next in line is Castilla coach Alvaro Arbeloa. A club man. But if a legend like Alonso could not change the culture, Arbeloa faces an almost impossible task.“If this season ends without trophies, Europe's elite will feel confirmed in their belief. If, by one of football's familiar contradictions, Real Madrid end up lifting silverware, we will reach the same conclusion we always do. That some managers fit certain clubs. And some clubs refuse to be managed at all.”With Mbappe seemingly set to sit out midweek cup action, Real Madrid’s fearsome No.10 could return to the fold when the Blancos - who sit four points adrift of Barcelona in the Liga table - play host to Levante on Saturday.
Kylian Mbappe's Absence
Following the dismissal of head coach Xabi Alonso and the appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa as the interim manager, much attention has been focused on star player Kylian Mbappe's absence from the team's training session. Mbappe, who had been dealing with a knee injury, did not feature in the session under Arbeloa's guidance, raising questions about his current status with the club.
Response to Xabi Alonso's Departure
Mbappe, known for his prolific performances under Alonso, expressed his gratitude towards the former manager on social media. Despite the successes achieved during Alonso's tenure, reports suggest that Mbappe was among the players who had disagreements with the coach, highlighting a possible strain in their relationship.
Reactions and Criticisms
Mbappe faced criticism for his behavior after Real Madrid's defeat to Barcelona, with accusations of being disrespectful towards the opposition. Barcelona president Joan Laporta expressed surprise at Mbappe's actions and emphasized the importance of sportsmanship and respect in football.
The Future Without Xabi Alonso
Journalist Guillem Balague analyzed the challenges faced by Real Madrid in the post-Alonso era, pointing out issues such as player discontent and tactical disagreements. As Arbeloa takes charge temporarily, the club faces a crucial period where success could redefine perceptions of their management structure.
Looking Ahead
As Real Madrid prepares for upcoming fixtures, including a Copa del Rey clash with Albacete and a Liga match against Levante, Mbappe's absence adds intrigue to the team dynamics. With aspirations for silverware this season, the Blancos must navigate the transition period effectively to maintain their competitive edge.









