Real Madrid Fans Call for Mbappe's Removal: Petition Surpasses 33 Million Signatures, Ignites Online Storm
Theo Al Jazeera English
An online petition demanding Real Madrid drop Kylian Mbappe has collected over 33 million signatures after photos surfaced of the striker vacationing on a yacht while recovering from a thigh injury. The symbolic petition, titled "Mbappe Out," has ignited debate about the forward's professionalism despite his status as the club's top scorer this season.
An online petition demanding Real Madrid drop Kylian Mbappe from the squad has far exceeded its initial target, fueling fierce online debate over the French forward's conduct both on and off the pitch.
Despite being the club's top scorer this season, the 27-year-old Mbappe has faced criticism for activities deemed unprofessional while recovering from injury—particularly photos of him on a yacht in Sardinia with actress Ester Exposito.
The petition, titled "Mbappe Out," has amassed 33 million signatures—more than 165 times its original goal of 200,000. A single-page website displays the slogan: "Madridistas, speak up. If you believe change is needed, don't stay silent—sign and stand up for the best future of the club."
Fan outrage stems from Mbappe reportedly holidaying in Italy during his time off for a thigh injury sustained last month—an injury that could keep him out of the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona this Sunday. In response, Exposito has disabled comments on recent Instagram posts, though users have continued to leave remarks on older ones.
It remains unclear whether the 33 million signatures actually come from Real Madrid supporters or include multiple submissions, as the petition site does not require email or personal information. Nonetheless, the figure has drawn attention for being nearly half the population of France and exceeding that of several World Cup nations.
The petition is largely symbolic and unlikely to lead to real action. Mbappe remains under contract with Real Madrid until June 2029, and the club posted training footage of him on Wednesday, indicating his return. He joined the Spanish giants from Paris Saint-Germain two seasons ago.
Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa dismissed the controversy in a post-match press conference after Sunday's win over Espanyol: "All plans for injured players are overseen by the medical team. In his free time, Mbappe can do whatever he sees fit, like any other player." The club has not commented on whether the trip affected his recovery.
Mbappe is expected to be fully fit for the 2026 World Cup with France, which kicks off in the United States, Canada, and Mexico in June and July. France, runners-up in Qatar 2022, open against Senegal on June 16, followed by matches with Iraq and Norway in the group stage. He may also feature in friendlies against Ivory Coast and Northern Ireland on June 4 and 8.
