MADRID (AP): Kylian Mbappé “is not affected” by the Swedish media accusations that he was a subject of rape investigation, according to Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. Those reports were rejected as untrue by Mbappé’s legal team.
“Speculations from those outside the team are not something I take seriously. Ancelotti stated on Friday that the player is not impacted in the slightest. Reports surfaced in Swedish media when the striker, who was not called up by France because of a minor injury, traveled to Stockholm during the international break.
Swedish media said Mbappé was being investigated for suspected rape at a Stockholm hotel, but they did not provide any sources. Representatives for Mbappé have referred to the reports as “false and irresponsible.” Prosecutors in Sweden said in a brief statement on Tuesday that police had received a report of a rape, but they did not identify any suspects. Ancelotti defended his player’s right to travel on his time off.
“The rest days are programmed for him and he can choose what he wants to do,” the Italian manager said. “I went to London for two days and didn’t ask anyone for permission.”
Late in September, Mbappé suffered an injury to his left thigh. However, he only missed one match for Real Madrid, starting in a 2-0 triumph against Villarreal in the Spanish league and then coming back as a substitute in a shocking 1-0 Champions League loss to Lille.
This week, Mbappé prepared for Madrid ahead of the start of the Spanish league. On Saturday, Madrid will play Celta Vigo.
