Kylian Mbappé has fired back at critics questioning his dedication to recovery, insisting he remains fully focused on returning from his latest injury setback. The Real Madrid and France superstar is currently sidelined with a left hamstring issue, putting his availability for Sunday's blockbuster El Clásico against Barcelona in serious doubt.

The timing couldn't be worse for Madrid, as they prepare for the biggest match in Spanish football without their talismanic forward. But it's not just the injury that has tongues wagging in Spain—reports emerged that Mbappé took a weekend trip to Italy with actress Ester Expósito, sparking accusations he wasn't taking his rehabilitation seriously enough.

Madrid fans, already frustrated with a disappointing season, questioned why their star striker was enjoying a holiday ahead of such a crucial fixture. Through a statement from his representatives, Mbappé firmly denied any wrongdoing, saying: "Part of the criticism is based on an overinterpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian's commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team."

This isn't the first time Mbappé has faced scrutiny over his fitness this season. Earlier in the campaign, he drew criticism when unable to play due to a knee ailment, with some supporters suggesting he might be saving himself for the World Cup, which kicks off in just five weeks.

The stakes are high, but the context adds another layer of drama. Real Madrid's season has unravelled—they're out of the Champions League and Copa del Rey, and trail Barcelona by 11 points in La Liga with only four games left. Barça could clinch the title on Sunday at the Camp Nou, making El Clásico a potential coronation for their arch-rivals.

Despite the controversy, Spanish media report that Mbappé even showed up at Madrid's training center on a day off to continue his recovery. The club has yet to confirm whether he'll be fit to feature, leaving fans on edge as the biggest match of the season approaches.