05/05/26 10:19:00
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05/05 09:20 CDT Injured Mbapp defends commitment to rehab after out-of-town
trip before clasico
Injured Mbapp defends commitment to rehab after out-of-town trip before clasico
By SAMUEL PETREQUIN
AP Sports Writer
Kylian Mbapp responded to a fresh wave of criticism in Spain, insisting on
Tuesday he remains fully committed to recovering from his latest injury.
The Real Madrid and France forward is sidelined by a left hamstring issue which
is casting doubt about his availability for Sunday's clasico in Barcelona, the
biggest match in Spanish soccer.
During his time off, Mbapp reportedly traveled to Italy with actress Ester
Expsito last weekend, prompting criticism in Spanish media that he may not be
taking his rehabilitation seriously. Madrid fans also questioned why the
league's best striker was on holiday ahead of the clasico.
Mbapp denied any wrongdoing through a statement from his representatives sent
to The Associated Press.
"Part of the criticism is based on an overinterpretation of elements related to
a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the
reality of Kylian's commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team,"
the statement read.
Unhappy Real Madrid supporters believe Mbapp is saving himself for the World
Cup that begins in five weeks.
He also drew criticism earlier this season when he couldn't play because of a
knee ailment.
Madrid has little to play for in the final stretch of the season. It has been
eliminated in the Champions League and the Copa del Rey, and is virtually out
of contention in La Liga as it trails Barcelona by 11 points with four rounds
remaining. Barcelona could clinch on Sunday.
Madrid has yet to say whether Mbapp will be fit and available for the clasico.
Spanish media say Mbapp went to Madrid's training center on a day off to
continue his recovery.
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AP Sports Writer Tales Azzoni in Madrid contributed.
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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
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