Kylian Mbappe’s start at Real Madrid has been underwhelming, as the French superstar continues to adapt to life at the Santiago Bernabéu. Following Real Madrid’s 2-1 defeat to Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday, the pressure on Mbappe intensified, with the forward missing a crucial penalty for the second consecutive game. Coach Carlo Ancelotti, however, remains confident in Mbappe’s ability to rediscover his best form and lead the team back to success.
Mbappe’s Struggles at Real Madrid
After arriving at Real Madrid with lofty expectations, Mbappe has found it challenging to replicate the form that made him a global sensation at Paris Saint-Germain. While the French captain has scored 10 goals this season, his performances in recent weeks have been below par. His missed penalties against Liverpool in the Champions League and Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga have drawn criticism, as Real Madrid suffered their fourth loss in seven games across all competitions.
Mbappe’s inability to convert crucial opportunities has become a focal point in Real Madrid’s struggles, with fans and pundits questioning whether the forward is feeling the weight of expectation at his new club.
Ancelotti’s Defense of Mbappe
Speaking after the defeat at San Mamés, Carlo Ancelotti defended Mbappe’s performances, emphasizing that the forward needs time to fully adapt to Real Madrid’s system and demands.
“He is at a lot more than just 1% of his potential, but he’s not at his best,” Ancelotti said during the post-match press conference. “We have to give him time to adapt. He has scored 10 goals and is working hard to improve and to do better.”
Second penalty missed in one week for Kylian Mbappé, again saved by the GK pic.twitter.com/DZGPbWrO5J
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 4, 2024
Ancelotti also dismissed the notion that Mbappe’s missed penalties define his contributions on the pitch. “I don’t evaluate a player’s game because of a missed penalty. Sometimes you score, and sometimes you miss. Obviously, he’s sad and disappointed, but we have to keep going,” he added.
Real Madrid’s Recent Form
Real Madrid’s defeat to Athletic Bilbao highlighted the team’s inconsistent form, which has seen them slip further behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona. With Barcelona leading the standings on 37 points, Real Madrid remain second with 33 points but have played one game more. Atletico Madrid, in third place, are just one point behind Los Blancos with a game in hand.
Ancelotti acknowledged the competitive nature of the match against Bilbao, noting that his team fought hard but lacked the clinical edge needed to secure a better result.
“The match was evenly matched. Athletic are a very dangerous team. We competed and fought. I think the match was worth a draw,” said Ancelotti. “But it is what it is. We’re still in contention and have to keep fighting.”
A Missed Opportunity in LaLiga
The defeat was a missed opportunity for Real Madrid to close the gap on Barcelona and solidify their position in the title race. Ancelotti’s side now faces the challenge of regrouping and maintaining consistency as they prepare for their next game against Girona.
Real Madrid give Barcelona back three points and are four points from first place now pic.twitter.com/I3GjCUr1Wt
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 4, 2024
The loss to Bilbao also highlighted ongoing concerns about Real Madrid’s defensive organization and lack of cohesion in attack. Despite their talent-packed squad, the team has struggled to deliver consistent performances, with injuries and individual errors compounding their problems.
Mbappe’s Role in Real Madrid’s Revival
Mbappe’s integration into Real Madrid’s system remains a work in progress. As the team’s marquee signing, he is expected to play a central role in their pursuit of silverware. Ancelotti’s emphasis on patience and gradual improvement suggests that the club is committed to supporting the forward through his adaptation period.
Mbappe’s 10 goals this season underscore his potential to deliver for Real Madrid, but the team will need him to step up in key moments, particularly as they navigate a challenging schedule in both domestic and European competitions.
The Road Ahead
For Real Madrid, the focus now shifts to their upcoming LaLiga clash against Girona. Ancelotti emphasized the importance of bouncing back quickly and building momentum as they aim to close the gap on Barcelona and maintain pressure in the title race.
“We could have got a better result, but we’re here and we have to think about Saturday’s game,” said Ancelotti.
As Mbappe continues to work on his form and adapt to his new surroundings, the support of his coach and teammates will be crucial. Real Madrid’s success this season could hinge on his ability to rediscover the brilliance that made him one of the most sought-after players in the world.
With LaLiga and Champions League campaigns still in play, Real Madrid’s resilience and Mbappe’s potential resurgence could prove decisive in their quest for glory.
READ NEXT:
