Kylian Mbappé has explained that he did not start against Real Oviedo because coach Álvaro Arbeloa informed him that he occupies the fourth spot in the team's offensive hierarchy, behind Mastantuono, Vinicius, and Gonzalo. The Frenchman denied being upset and stated that he respects the manager's decision, declaring himself very happy at the white club.
Role management in a dressing room with multiple stars 🤔
Arbeloa's decision responds to a technical logic that prioritizes immediate performance over the player's reputation. Mastantuono has shown a superior connection with Vinicius in attack, while Gonzalo brings a box presence that Mbappé has yet to fully offer. The coaching staff is working on readapting the Frenchman to a more associative role, something that clashes with his natural finishing instinct. Internal competition raises the level but demands patience.
Mbappé, happy to be fourth: that's how the salary is earned 💰
Mbappé says he is very happy being the fourth forward in the squad. A joy that his agent surely shares, seeing that the luxury bench comes with a star's salary. Of course, if Arbeloa asks him to be a ball boy, he would surely accept it with a smile as well. Meanwhile, fans wonder if next season he will request the number 4 jersey to feel more identified with his new role.