Kylian Mbappe (foto: Screenshot)
Carlo Ancelotti downplays Kylian Mbappe’s struggles, insisting the team’s inconsistency is a collective issue as Real Madrid aims to improve in La Liga and Europe.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti defended Kylian Mbappe following criticism of the French forward’s recent performances, stating that his struggles are part of a broader team problem. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s La Liga clash with Getafe, Ancelotti emphasized the need for collective improvement to overcome the team’s inconsistency.
"Mbappe's problem is the problem that we all have. The idea is to try to give our best version, not just of him but myself, other players," said Ancelotti. He stressed that the issue is not solely Mbappe’s, but one that affects the entire squad. "It's not a problem about one player. We have to try and improve that, do everything we can."
Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid this summer after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, has faced criticism for his performances, including a missed penalty during Madrid's Champions League defeat to Liverpool. The striker has scored just two goals in his last nine matches, though he has contributed eight goals overall this season. Ancelotti acknowledged the forward is adapting to his new team and said improvement is expected across the board.
"He is absolutely not sunken. He knows he has to improve like we all do," said the coach, adding that criticism of Mbappe after the Liverpool match is unfair. "He's being scrutinised because he missed a penalty, like many of my players have."
Real Madrid’s recent struggles are compounded by injuries to key players, including Vinicius Junior, Dani Carvajal, and Eder Militao. Despite this, Ancelotti confirmed Brazilian winger Rodrygo will be available against Getafe. Madrid, currently second in La Liga, trail league leaders Barcelona by four points but have a game in hand.
Ancelotti also reflected on his own responsibilities, admitting he has fallen short of expectations. "I am like Mbappe, I am trying to give my best version. Results say that I have not been capable of doing that. I'm not happy... but I'm convinced we will fix it, like we always fix it," he said.