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Rabat – Real Madrid are facing growing unrest inside the dressing room as they prepare for Sunday’s decisive clash with Barcelona
The first incident came in April when Antonio Rudiger clashed with teammate Alvaro Careers at the training ground.
Sources said the German apologized and invited teammates and their families to lunch in an effort to ease tensions
Soon after, Kylian Mbappe argued with a member of the coaching staff during a training session.
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He reacted angrily when called offside, using insulting language toward the assistant. The episode added to the uneasy atmosphere around the squad.
Mbappe’s behavior has drawn criticism from staff and other players. He was also questioned for taking a short trip to Italy with his partner while recovering from a hamstring injury. Many supporters felt the timing was poor, given Madrid’s struggles.
Coach Alvaro Arbeloa defended the player publicly, saying medical staff oversee recovery schedules.
Privately, however, sources suggest Arbeloa is unhappy with how the situation has been handled. Mbappe’s representatives insist the criticism is exaggerated and that he remains committed to the team.
His fitness is now the main concern. He is Madrid’s top scorer with 41 goals this season, but his availability for El Clásico remains uncertain.
Arbeloa said tests last week showed recovery could take longer, while club sources admit only Mbappé knows how ready he is.
Atmosphere and managerial doubts
The mood inside Madrid is tense. Players are unsettled, Arbeloa’s future is in doubt, and several squad members face uncertain roles.
Managing the dressing room has always been difficult at the Bernabeu, but this season the fractures are more visible.
Arbeloa is widely expected to leave at the end of the campaign, with president Florentino Perez considering alternatives.
Reports suggest Jose Mourinho is among the favorites to return to the Madrid bench. Talks have also been held with Toni Kroos about a new role at the club.
Madrid beat Espanyol 2‑0 on Sunday thanks to two goals from Vinicius Junior, but the display was flat.
Vinicius has now scored 16 times in 2026, second only to Harry Kane in Europe’s top leagues.
Injuries remain a concern, with Ferland Mendy possibly needing surgery and Thibaut Courtois still sidelined.
All eyes are now on Sunday’s El Clásico at Camp Nou. Barcelona need only a draw to secure the title, while Madrid must win to keep the race alive.
For Arbeloa and his unsettled squad, it could be the defining moment of their season.
