French superstar Kylian Mbappé faces intense scrutiny ahead of Real Madrid's pivotal Clásico against FC Barcelona on Sunday, with both his physical readiness and long-term commitment to the Spanish club under the microscope. Barcelona can clinch the La Liga title with a draw at home, while Real Madrid desperately seek to prolong their rivals' celebrations in what has become a deeply disappointing campaign.

Fitness doubts overshadow the encounter

Mbappé missed Real Madrid's 2-0 victory over Espanyol last weekend due to a muscle injury and was restricted to light gym work on Wednesday, leaving his availability for the Clásico uncertain. The absence compounds concerns about his physical condition at a critical juncture, with the club unable to confirm his participation ahead of the fixture.

Stellar output masks deeper concerns

Despite his impressive goal tally — 41 goals in 41 games this season and 85 goals in 100 appearances for Real Madrid — media scrutiny has increasingly shifted toward questions about his attitude and integration within the squad. Reports, according to Xinhua, have painted a picture of a player whose off-field conduct is drawing unwanted attention.

The Sardinia trip and timing questions

Controversy intensified after Mbappé travelled to Sardinia with his partner while recovering from injury. Further controversy emerged when reports claimed his private jet touched down in Madrid only minutes before the Espanyol kickoff, prompting sections of the Spanish media to question his commitment and availability management. Earlier this year, he also travelled to France for a second medical opinion on a knee concern — a decision that fuelled speculation about trust in Real Madrid's medical protocols, though the player later disputed reports that the club's staff had initially scanned the wrong knee.

A season of disappointment for the Whites

Real Madrid's trophy cabinet during Mbappé's two seasons has yielded only the 2024 UEFA Super Cup victory over Atalanta. In stark contrast, Barcelona have dominated domestic football, securing La Liga and defeating Madrid in the Copa del Rey final, while Arsenal and Bayern Munich successively eliminated the Spanish club from the Champions League. This sustained underperformance has intensified pressure on all senior figures, including the French forward.

Summer overhaul looms large

Real Madrid are widely expected to undertake significant structural changes before next season. Concerns persist over the durability and form of senior defenders including Dani Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, David Alaba, and Antonio Rudiger. Additionally, tactical questions have surfaced regarding whether Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Júnior can function cohesively in the attacking third — a puzzle that may force the club's hierarchy to reconsider squad composition and formation strategy.