Since he arrived at Real Madrid, we no longer recognize Kylian Mbappé. Certainly, his performances were already declining in his last months at PSG but his numerous goals regularly saved appearances. This time, his realism is decreasing (10 goals in 20 matches in all competitions all the same) and his complementarity with his partners, starting with Vinicius Jr in front, but also Rodrygo and Bellingham is still to be perfected. It’s not just in the game that he displays his current limits. This often goes hand in hand, but its physical performance decreases and the mind weakens.
The most notable examples are his missed penalties against Liverpool in the Champions League last week, and the one in Bilbao on Wednesday evening. Both times, he executed his actions poorly between a run-up stopped in the middle, and a mid-height shot that was more easily controlled for a goalkeeper. It’s hard not to see it as a confidence problem, given that he was subjected to much greater pressure during his playing career. “He is a player who is aware of what he can and will do. We are with him. He doesn’t present his best version», recognizes Carlo Ancelotti today at a press conference.
Ancelotti on Mbappé: “in terms of intensity, it has improved a lot»
“Many people, when they fail, are not aware of it. He does everything he can to do the best possible, and as quickly as possible.» defends the Italian on the eve of a trip to Girona as part of the 16th day of La Liga (Saturday, 9 p.m.). How to allow him to regain serenity, he who on top of that was playing in a preferential position during the last matches in the absence of Vinicius Jr returning to training. You have to evaluate lots of things. “In terms of intensity, he has improved a lot», assures Ancelotti, taking physical statistics as witness. “Against Getafe he did 600 meters at high intensity, against Athletic 500 meters. It’s a good level.»
“We have to support him, but that doesn’t mean he has to play every game» he continues, as much to preserve him physically as mentally. Because that’s the other concern at the moment, recognizes the Madrid coach. “It’s a problem of continuity and it will come when he and his teammates adapt to his characteristics, which are particular and special. The question of penalties also depends on the moment and motivation. He has to hold on. Sooner or later it will work. What makes me say that he is on the right path is that his intensity level has improved.»Is there light at the end of the tunnel for Mbappé, whose interview on Canal+ on Sunday is particularly anticipated.
