On the eve of Real Madrid’s La Liga clash with Leganés, Carlo Ancelotti faced the media as usual. This time, however, the Italian coach let his irritation show when asked about Kylian Mbappé, who is clearly struggling on and off the pitch.
After a series of poor performances, Los Merengues returned to winning ways with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Osasuna before the international break. However, the break was marked by tension for several players, not least Kylian Mbappé. Back at Valdebebas, the Madrid squad has been working intensively to prepare for the trip to Butarque, a crucial match in the race for the title.
In front of the press, Carlo Ancelotti had to answer questions about his star striker, Kylian Mbappé, whose recent form is causing concern. The French striker is facing a number of challenges: fierce criticism in France, extra-sporting accusations in Sweden and a series of lacklustre performances that are fuelling doubts. But Kylian Mbappé is said to have recently made a promise to his coach: that he will find the net again in his next two games, against Leganés in La Liga and Liverpool in the Champions League.
Kylian Mbappé for Real Madrid since the start of October 😬 pic.twitter.com/aEXi6lpRcW
— OneFootball (@OneFootball) November 23, 2024
The question about Mbappé that annoys Ancelotti
When asked about Mbappé’s mental state, Carlo Ancelotti made no secret of his annoyance at what he considered to be inappropriate speculation. The Italian coach was keen to defend his player, while praising his professionalism and determination. “I see him happy, calm and relaxed. I don’t think he has any mental problems. It’s too ugly to speculate on that,” he said firmly. Ancelotti also spoke about Mbappé’s role in the team and refuted the idea that the striker had asked him to reposition himself. « Kylian has never asked me to play in a specific position. All my players want to be first-choice, whatever their position. He’s training well and he’s improved his condition. I hope he can show all his qualities », of which there are many.
Carlo Ancelotti : "Si Kylian Mbappé a des problèmes mentaux ? Quelle question… Je le vois heureux. Vous spéculez là-dessus… c'est très moche." pic.twitter.com/yNjWW62pg8
— Real Madrid 🇫🇷 (@RMadridFrance_) November 23, 2024
Kylian Mbappé, who has been mute for several games now, is going through one of the most difficult periods since his arrival at Real Madrid. Although his performances have been criticised, Ancelotti is convinced that the situation is only temporary. “A bad patch happens to all great strikers. I see him motivated and happy with his team-mates. This series will come to an end sooner or later. He’s going to play a great game, I’m sure of it,” said the Italian coach. Ancelotti also stressed that Mbappé does not need to be overburdened with defensive duties and that his attacking qualities speak for themselves. “I’m not going to teach him how to play as a striker, it’s up to him to teach me,” he added.
Leave a Reply