Daniel Riolo does not rule out Mbappé moving to Liverpool

Daniel Riolo does not rule out Mbappé looking for a new setting and considering Liverpool. Asked about that destination, the French RMC Sport journalist replied: “Maybe.” He also raised the possibility that the forward might seek “a little peace and quiet in England”, without presenting it as a settled decision.

Appearing on La Tribu to discuss the Real Madrid forward’s situation, Riolo said he had not understood the player’s conduct since the summer, particularly his communication. Kylian Mbappé’s situation is prompting questions in both Spain and France. “After the summer, I have to say I don’t understand anything Mbappé is doing, especially in terms of communication,” he said.

The journalist believes the Frenchman could be disappointed with Real Madrid’s project. “Very possible, because he expected a different team. The team is the same, with the same problems as last season. The coach changed, but the problems are the same. He is disappointed, but he is a Real Madrid player,” he said. Riolo also judged that Mbappé knew “how to annoy Real Madrid fans”.

He criticised episodes during the player’s recovery. Referring to the France team, a nightclub visit, photographs and “the bicycle episode”, he said: “I don’t understand anything he does with the France team: he leaves injured, then goes to a nightclub, with the photos, the camera, and then the bicycle episode.” In France, he added, these events had prompted more surprise than criticism: “People were totally surprised, asking: what is he doing?”

Riolo believes that showing indifference to public reaction is a problem at a club such as Real Madrid, because football is a popular sport. He also gave a firm view on Mbappé playing alongside Vinicius: “It isn’t possible for Vinicius and Mbappé to play together. To me, it’s impossible, impossible.” He did, however, say that he did not know what their personal relationship was like.

The journalist believes the uncertainty around Mbappé goes beyond football matters. His suggestion of a move to England, and his “Maybe” when asked about Liverpool, remain Riolo’s comments, not an announcement of a transfer.