Ancelotti Defends Mbappe but Admits: ‘He Can Play Better’

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti stands by Kylian Mbappe, acknowledging his talent while suggesting the France star has room for improvement.

Carlo Ancelotti has stood by Kylian Mbappe despite his lackluster beginning to the season at Real Madrid, acknowledging that the French captain does have room for improvement in his performance.

Since his summer transfer from PSG, the 25-year-old has netted seven goals in La Liga. However, his sole Champions League goal was scored during Real’s 3-1 victory over Stuttgart in their opening match of the tournament.

Kylian Mbappe was effectively neutralized by 21-year-old defender Conor Bradley during Real Madrid’s 2-0 away loss to Liverpool in the Champions League on Wednesday. Following three defeats in their last five games, “Los Blancos” currently hold the competition’s final playoff spot.

Real Madrid have also dropped three of their last five matches across all competitions ahead of Sunday’s local derby with Getafe. Reports indicate that manager Ancelotti and club president Florentino Perez will address the recent dip in form during face-to-face crisis meetings.

“Concerned? Just enough, because I’d rather address the situation than dwell on it. I’m confident we’ll resolve this issue as we always have,” Ancelotti stated at Saturday’s news conference.