Influential French journalist Daniel Riolo has issued a warning that could impact Villarreal CF's next opponent, stating that Kylian Mbappé's departure from Real Madrid at the end of this season cannot be ruled out. Villarreal, ninth in La Liga with 8 points, face the Madrid side this Saturday at the Santiago Bernabéu, a match that could be overshadowed by this growing controversy.

Riolo, a prominent voice on RMC Sport, expressed deep concern over the French forward's attitude and mental state. "I have the impression that he is not well mentally," the journalist stated, listing a series of recent episodes that have caused unease. Mbappé has been injured since September 25th but was photographed leaving a Paris nightclub and posted a video of himself cycling during his recovery, an act that contradicts the coaching staff's guidelines.

The tip of the iceberg

For Riolo, these incidents are merely symptoms of a larger problem. "The bicycle incident is just the tip of the iceberg," he said. "I'm starting to wonder: does Mbappé still have the desire? What does he want?" The analyst also criticised the player's absence from recent France matches at the Stade de France, despite being in the city, interpreting it as a negative message.

The journalist connected these signals to recent comments in Spain suggesting Mbappé "is losing the affection of Real Madrid fans". Riolo interprets these statements as a possible warning from the club to the player. "If it's said, it means Real Madrid wants to send him a message," he noted. This situation opens an unprecedented debate about whether the Frenchman's project and the club's remain aligned, despite his contract running until 2029.

For Villarreal, who arrive on a two-game winning streak after beating Málaga and Levante, this context adds an extra element to an already challenging fixture. The Yellow Submarine, with Pape Gueye as their top scorer this season with three goals, will look to capitalise on any potential distraction in the rival camp. The squad's status, key for facing this type of challenge, is detailed in the squad section. The match will be played on Saturday, October 10th, with Real Madrid currently sitting fourth in the table.

Background and full detail: Sports Illustrated