A viral online petition demanding the departure of Kylian Mbappé from Real Madrid has reportedly surpassed 50 million signatures, according to Sports Illustrated, highlighting a fractious relationship between the forward and the Bernabéu crowd. Despite scoring 41 goals in 41 appearances during the 2025/26 campaign, the 27-year-old forward has faced significant scrutiny following a recent hamstring injury and reports of a holiday in Italy during his recovery. Mbappé remains under a five-year contract in Madrid until June 2029, and while the petition's validity has been questioned due to suspected bot activity and a lack of email verification, the movement reflects deep-seated unrest following a trophyless 2024/25 season.
Friction over form and fitness
The campaign for Mbappé’s exit gained momentum after Al Jazeera reported on the player’s recent trip to Italy while sidelined with a hamstring issue sustained against Real Betis in late April. The timing, coming shortly before a crucial El Clásico fixture against Barcelona, drew criticism from sections of the fanbase despite manager Álvaro Arbeloa defending the player's right to spend his free time as he chooses. Mbappé has consistently produced elite individual numbers, even matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 59 goals in a calendar year for the club in 2025. However, Madridistas have historically prioritised collective success and work rate, previously subjecting legends such as Gareth Bale and Ronaldo to similar treatment when results faltered.
Squad unity and tactical concerns
Amid the hostility, Mbappé has received public backing from teammate Vinícius Júnior, while Mbappé himself has called for fans to support the entire group rather than targeting individuals. Speaking on the squad's form, Mbappé noted that while he understands the frustration, the fans "should boo the whole squad, not just a few players" because "we’re all playing poorly." This internal solidarity comes despite reports of tactical friction regarding which player occupies the left-wing role. The current instability has been exacerbated by the club’s recent early exits from European competition, placing immense pressure on Arbeloa’s position. With the summer window approaching, the club must weigh Mbappé's individual brilliance against the clear cultural disconnect currently affecting the squad's relationship with its supporters.