Kylian Mbappé has unintentionally fueled fresh debate over Real Madrid’s managerial future after interacting with a social media post linked to José Mourinho.
With Madrid on course to finish the season without silverware, pressure continues to mount on head coach Álvaro Arbeloa. The Spanish giants have already exited domestic and European cup competitions and now trail rivals FC Barcelona by nine points in the La Liga title race, with only six matches remaining.
Club president Florentino Pérez is expected to review the managerial situation at the end of the campaign. Among the names linked with a potential return is Mourinho, who previously managed Madrid between 2010 and 2013. During that spell, he guided the club to a record-breaking 100-point league title, along with Copa del Rey and Super Cup triumphs.
Speculation intensified when fans noticed Mbappé had “liked” a post praising Mourinho’s previous success at the club, including his influence on Cristiano Ronaldo.
However, Arbeloa dismissed the incident when questioned ahead of Madrid’s clash with Real Betis.
“These are things I don’t even consider,” Arbeloa said. “It doesn’t bother me if he gives a like to Mourinho, Julia Roberts or anyone else. It has no importance.”
The mention of Roberts echoes a similar moment in 2023, when Pep Guardiola named her among his personal idols, alongside sporting icons Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods.
Arbeloa, meanwhile, insisted his focus remains firmly on results rather than speculation about his future.
“My responsibility is to win every game. That’s what I demand from the players. We must stay professional and respect the badge.”
Madrid now face a demanding run of fixtures, including three consecutive away matches. The highlight comes on May 10, when they travel to face Barcelona, before closing out the season with a mix of home and away games.
