Kylian Mbappe has returned a ‘different player’ as Carlo Ancelotti insists Real Madrid star not ‘affected’ by Stockholm hotel rape allegation

The French footballer travelled to the Swedish capital during the international break and an inquiry into an alleged rape at a hotel where the forward was reportedly present has since been launched. Although no names have been officially connected to the case, the Swedish media linked Mbappe to the investigation, prompting the player and his lawyer to dismiss the reports as a “slanderous rumour.”

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  WHAT ANCELOTTI SAID

  As Real Madrid are set to return to action, Ancelotti was questioned about Mbappe’s activities during his time off and whether the player had informed the club about his trip to Sweden. The Italian downplayed any controversy, explaining that the players were free to spend their rest days as they wished.

  “The rest days were scheduled for him and then everyone chooses what they want to do,” Ancelotti said. “I went to London for two days and I haven’t asked anyone’s permission. I also don’t have a travel agency to organise the players’ trips.”

  When asked if Mbappe was “affected” by the media speculation, Ancelotti said: “I talk to the players every day. I can comment on what I said before, which at this point is speculation. I don’t see him affected at all, [and instead] with a lot of enthusiasm to contribute to the team.”

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Beyond the off-field issues, Ancelotti was eager to focus on Mbappe’s physical condition as he had been recovering from a recent muscle injury. The coach informed that Mbappe was nearing 100 per cent fitness and expressed his admiration for the effort that the player put in during the two-week break from competitive action.

  “He’s taken advantage of the break to improve his condition,” Ancelotti revealed. “He’s very well, happy, and looking forward to returning tomorrow and being important for the team. These 15 days have helped him a lot, because he is a different player to what he was before the break.

  “On a tactical level, his position does not change from how he has played in recent games. He can vary his position on the left wing with Vinicius, but we have been focused on physical work. This break has been good for him and I see him very well.”

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  WHAT NEXT FOR MBAPPE?

  With Real Madrid currently trailing Barcelona by three points in La Liga, Mbappe is expected to fire on all cylinders in their upcoming match against Celta Vigo on Saturday. Los Blancos will have little time to regroup after their visit to Balaidos as they are slated to host Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona next in the Champions League and La Liga respectively.