Kylian Mbappé became the target of criticism after being seen preventing Real Madrid players from forming a guard of honor for Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
On 12 January 2026, Kylian Mbappé, the French striker for Real Madrid, faced intense criticism from media and fans after being accused of displaying "inappropriate behavior" following his team's 2-3 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final held in Saudi Arabia.
As the final whistle blew, controversy erupted immediately when reports indicated that Mbappé tried to persuade his teammates to return to the bench instead of lining up to congratulate Barcelona, a customary but non-mandatory gesture.
According to Forbes, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso had intended for his team to form a guard of honor, but this was interrupted by the French captain. Renowned journalist Alfredo Martinez revealed that Mbappé clearly showed dissatisfaction and even reprimanded some teammates who formed the guard of honor.
Additionally, television footage captured Mbappé as the first Real Madrid player to leave the field while Barcelona was lifting the trophy, which intensified the criticism on social media immediately.
Many fans on platform X harshly condemned his behavior; some described it as a “loser’s attitude,” others called it “completely classless,” and one comment summarized, “Mbappé still doesn’t understand humility, whether in victory or defeat.”