Kylian Mbappé is facing a backlash from fans as a petition calling for his removal from Real Madrid has gained significant traction online. The petition, which has garnered over 43 million signatures, was sparked by reports of Mbappé's alleged yacht trip while recovering from a thigh injury.
What Is the 'Mbappé Out' Petition?
The petition appeared online earlier this week and quickly gained momentum across social media platforms, with fans expressing their frustration with Mbappé's reported behavior.
The campaign's website featured a smiling image of Mbappé overlaid with the word 'Fuera', the Spanish word for 'out', in bright red lettering. Although the petition initially aimed for 200,000 signatures, the total quickly surged into the millions.
Why Are Real Madrid Fans Angry with Mbappé?
The backlash intensified after reports circulated online claiming Mbappé had travelled to Sardinia during his recovery from a thigh injury sustained last month. The injury placed his availability for Sunday's El Clásico in doubt, prompting concern among some supporters.
Social media users widely shared alleged photographs of Mbappé aboard a yacht with Spanish actress Ester Expósito. The images triggered criticism from some fans who questioned the forward's focus and commitment while sidelined.
Can the Petition Force Real Madrid to Remove Mbappé?
Despite its online popularity, the petition carries no formal authority over club decisions. Mbappé remains under contract with Real Madrid until June 2029 after joining from Paris Saint-Germain.
The controversy has arrived at a sensitive moment for Real Madrid as the club continues its title battle and prepares for one of the biggest fixtures of the season against Barcelona. Real Madrid have not publicly criticised Mbappé over the reported trip.
The scale of the petition's reported support has become a major talking point online, with the figure of 43 million signatures close to half the population of France and larger than the population of many countries competing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the reliability of the figure has been questioned due to the lack of verification process attached to the petition.
Football fan pages, meme accounts, and rival supporters have also amplified the campaign, helping the hashtag trend across multiple social media platforms. The petition's impact on Mbappé's future at Real Madrid remains to be seen, but it has certainly sparked a heated debate among football fans