Guardiola Teases Mbappe's Alleged Romance with Ester Exposito Ahead of Real Madrid Clash

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola once again captured Spanish media attention ahead of his team's Champions League Round of 16 match against Real Madrid. This follows a previous encounter in the league phase where Guardiola similarly made headlines, though for very different reasons.

Last December, prior to a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, Guardiola famously advised then-under-pressure Xabi Alonso to 'pee with his own,' a comment that preceded Alonso losing his job a month later. More recently, when asked for advice for Alvaro Arbeloa, Guardiola respectfully declined, citing a personal acquaintance with Alonso that made such commentary inappropriate. However, he still managed to generate significant media buzz in Madrid through another intriguing comment.

Guardiola Alludes to Mbappe's Alleged Romance

Recent discussions in Madrid have centered on Kylian Mbappe's injury and the criticism he faced for spending his recovery period in Paris. Guardiola was prompted for his opinion on players opting for recovery away from their club.

Guardiola responded with a sly remark: "Is my opinion truly that significant regarding whether Mbappe went to Paris for his recovery, especially since, according to information I've encountered, he wasn't alone? Does my view truly matter? This practice occurs at our club as well, and indeed, at all clubs. Everyone has their personal preferences, and I don't believe it shows disrespect to the club."

Guardiola's amused reaction was a clear nod to Spanish media reports suggesting Mbappe spent some of his time in Paris with Spanish actress Ester Exposito, after they were reportedly seen together in his home city.

Details of Mbappe and Ester Exposito's Alleged Relationship

Reports indicate that Mbappe first inquired about Exposito among his Real Madrid teammates before connecting with her on social media. Since then, the pair have reportedly had 'seven or eight' dates recently. Ester Exposito is a prominent Spanish actress, renowned for her role in the Netflix series 'Elite,' and is a regular feature in Spanish celebrity news. She has also been seen at social gatherings involving Real Madrid players, such as Fede Valverde's celebration in 2022, suggesting familiarity with the team.