Ancelotti: Mbappe’s Problem Is Real Madrid’s Problem

Carlo Ancelotti comments on Kylian Mbappe’s situation, stating that any issues he faces at PSG are directly linked to Real Madrid’s future plans.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti commented on Saturday that superstar striker Kylian Mbappe’s difficulties this season can be attributed to his team’s inconsistent performance overall.

The French striker failed to score a penalty, leading to Real Madrid’s defeat against Liverpool on Wednesday in the Champions League. This marks their third loss in five matches of the competition for Spanish and European champions.

Mbappe, who transferred to Madrid in the summer after his Paris Saint-Germain contract ended, faced criticism for his performance and has scored only two goals in his last nine matches with the team.

“Mbappe’s issue is something we all face,” Ancelotti stated during a news conference before Sunday’s La Liga match against Getafe. “Our goal is to strive for the best version of ourselves, not just him but also myself and other players.”

“The issue doesn’t lie with a single player; rather, it’s that our team as a whole has struggled to maintain consistency. It’s not about just one individual.”

“We need to make efforts to improve that and do everything possible… One aspect is Mbappe, who is new here and still adapting. Despite this, he has already scored eight goals and contributed in attacks by providing assists.”

“Certainly, he has the potential to play better; however, improvement is something we all strive for and will continue to pursue.”

Mbappe was excluded from the most recent two France squad selections and has also faced off-field challenges during his initial months at the Santiago Bernabeu.

“He is definitely not downcast; he’s aware that improvement is necessary, just like it is for all of us. Ancelotti added, ‘He’s under scrutiny following the Liverpool match because he missed a penalty, which has happened with many of my players.’”

The coach explained that the loss to Liverpool was partly because of injuries to several players, including Vinicius Junior, Dani Carvajal, and Eder Militao. However, he confirmed that Brazilian winger Rodrygo would be fit for the match against Getafe.

Madrid, currently in second place, are four points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona but have played one less match.

“I am trying to be my best self, just like Mbappe,” Ancelotti said.

“The results indicate that I haven’t been able to achieve that. I’m not pleased… but I’m confident we’ll resolve it, just as we always do.”

AFP