Kylian Mbappe (foto: Getty Images)
Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe has revealed that a change in mentality helped him overcome his early struggles at the club, allowing him to rediscover his best form in recent weeks.
peaking ahead of Real Madrid's Champions League clash against RB Salzburg, Mbappe admitted that his initial months at the Bernabéu were challenging, following his high-profile move from Paris Saint-Germain last summer. However, the 26-year-old now feels he has turned a corner after a string of impressive performances.
"You always have to stay calm and focus on your game and what you can improve," Mbappe said during the pre-match press conference. "I knew that I could change the situation, and now the situation has changed."
Mbappe endured a tough spell towards the end of 2024, missing crucial penalties against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao, an experience he described as "hitting the bottom." Determined to bounce back, the French forward has since netted eight goals in his last ten appearances, silencing critics and reaffirming his place as a key figure in Madrid's attacking setup.
The French forward emphasized that his struggles were largely psychological rather than physical.
"It was more of a mental thing... I knew I was good physically, good with the team, but I had to do more and I knew it," Mbappe explained. "I didn't come to Madrid to play badly, and I knew I had to change the situation."
Despite missing out on recent France national team call-ups due to a thigh injury, Mbappe expressed excitement about returning to international duty in March, when France will continue their pursuit of the Nations League semi-finals.
"There's no issue with the national team... I can understand the criticism, but my love for the national team has not changed," said the 2018 World Cup winner.
Mbappe’s resurgence comes at a crucial time for Los Blancos, with key domestic and European fixtures on the horizon. His recent form will be vital as Madrid aim to progress deep into the Champions League and maintain their push for La Liga glory.