Arsenal have booked their spot in the UEFA Champions League semifinals with a 2-1 win over Real Madrid in the second leg, sealing a dominant 5-1 aggregate victory. The result sets up a high-stakes clash with Paris Saint-Germain.
The outcome has also reignited scrutiny around Kylian Mbappé. While PSG are back in the semifinals for the second straight year, the focus remains on the French star, who struggled to make an impact as Madrid bowed out in disappointing fashion.
After Real Madrid’s Champions League exit — a match that saw Mbappé subbed off in the 75th minute — the honeymoon phase following his move from PSG appears to be fading. Tensions seem to be rising, especially after fans booed him during the clash with Athletic Club.
Kylian Mbappé draws wrath from Real Madrid supporters
ESPN FC highlighted the moment at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, where Mbappé, who is currently serving a one-match suspension for a red card, was shown on the big screen and met with whistles from the crowd.
Mbappe, who is out serving a one match suspension for his red card, was whistled at the Bernabeu when he was shown on the big screen. pic.twitter.com/H79Ajhpnbt
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 20, 2025
The reaction follows a wave of criticism from the Spanish media. Cadena SER’s Jesús Gallego was among those who didn’t hold back, taking aim at PSG’s all-time top scorer.
“Mbappé doesn’t structure Real Madrid’s game and I have doubts he ever will,” Gallego said. “He’s a player who runs for it, who makes individual plays. He’s not a footballer who plays collectively.”
