Karim Benzema, Real Madrid’s former star striker, weighed in on Mbappe’s situation during a recent interview.
Benzema highlighted that Mbappe’s struggles could stem from his discomfort in a center-forward position. Speaking on El Chiringuito, Benzema expressed empathy for the younger Frenchman, noting that Real Madrid’s high expectations might add extra pressure.
“Mbappe isn’t a real number nine,” Benzema remarked, pointing out that even when playing centrally for France, Mbappe hasn’t looked entirely comfortable. While Mbappe’s skill set is extraordinary, Benzema suggested that the issue lies in playing a role that doesn’t suit his natural abilities.
Vinicius Junior’s Dominance on the Left
The heart of Mbappe’s Real Madrid dilemma revolves around Vinicius Junior’s dominance on the left wing. The Brazilian has become an essential player, and Ancelotti shows no sign of shifting Vinicius from his preferred position. Benzema emphasized that Vinicius’s consistent performances make it virtually impossible for Mbappe to reclaim the left-wing spot he thrived in at PSG.
With Vinicius on the left, Ancelotti has placed Mbappe in the center. However, this strategy hasn’t been without issues. Even though Mbappe has scored eight goals in 14 appearances across all competitions, he hasn’t consistently hit the heights expected of him, particularly in high-stakes matches.
The Pressure to Succeed as a Center-Forward
For Real Madrid, expectations are sky-high. Playing for Los Blancos comes with immense scrutiny, and the club’s fans have always demanded the best from their players. According to Benzema, if Mbappe fails to adapt and go on a goal-scoring run, criticism will follow. “If you go two or three games without a goal, you’re going to have a lot of problems,” Benzema warned.
Mbappe’s current situation in Madrid is a far cry from his time at PSG, where he had a more free-flowing role, often exploiting the left flank. Now, he must adjust his playstyle and learn to operate as a true number nine. This transition requires a different mindset, and the pressure to deliver is relentless, especially considering his massive contract and the expectations that come with being one of the world’s most expensive players.
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Benzema’s Advice: Hard Work and Adaptation
Benzema, who spent 14 years at Real Madrid and won the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2022, had some words of advice for Mbappe. “Don’t give up,” Benzema urged, suggesting that adaptation is key. He encouraged Mbappe to view this transition as an opportunity to grow rather than a limitation.
According to Benzema, it’s crucial for Mbappe to accept his new role and “forget about the left flank for a while.” This means committing fully to the central striker position, despite it not being his natural inclination. Benzema’s insights carry weight, as he himself evolved over the years at Real Madrid, adapting his game to fit various team dynamics, especially during Cristiano Ronaldo’s time at the club.
Why Adapting is Crucial for Mbappe’s Future at Real Madrid
The challenge of playing as a number nine isn’t just about personal preference; it’s also about tactical alignment within Ancelotti’s setup. Real Madrid’s game plan requires a central striker who can hold up play, create space, and score consistently. For Mbappe, this shift might require changes in his approach, such as playing with his back to goal, engaging in more aerial duels, and refining his positioning within the box.
Adapting to the number nine role could also mean focusing on link-up play and integrating more closely with Real Madrid’s midfielders, who are used to a dynamic and physical presence upfront. If Mbappe succeeds in adapting, he could redefine what it means to be a modern center-forward at Real Madrid. However, if he struggles, it could impact not only his performance but also his relationship with the fans and the coaching staff.
The Road Ahead for Mbappe and Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe faces his biggest challenge yet: mastering the number nine role at Real Madrid. With Vinicius Junior thriving on the left wing, Mbappe’s dream move to Los Blancos hasn’t been without its difficulties.
Understanding the Issue: Mbappe Isn’t a Natural Center-Forward
As he arrived in the Spanish capital this summer, fresh from his tenure at Paris Saint-Germain, Kylian Mbappe was anticipated to take La Liga by storm.
However, the start of his Real Madrid journey has been somewhat rocky, with coach Carlo Ancelotti placing him in a central striker role.
This isn’t Mbappe’s comfort zone; he’s renowned for his explosive prowess on the left wing. But with Vinicius Junior — arguably one of the world’s most in-form wingers — firmly holding that spot, Mbappe has found himself in unfamiliar territory.
Mbappe’s test as Real Madrid’s number nine will continue as the team faces strong opponents, including their upcoming Champions League clash against AC Milan. This match will provide another opportunity for Mbappe to silence critics and prove his value as a central striker.
Despite the challenges, there’s a silver lining. Mbappe’s adaptability and raw talent have already earned him eight goals, showing that even though he’s not in his preferred position, he has the capability to make an impact. If he can fully embrace this role, Mbappe might even unlock new aspects of his game, adding another layer to his already impressive skill set.
