Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has publicly stated that new signing Kylian Mbappé is a significant factor contributing to Real Madrid’s recent struggles on the pitch. Despite joining the club on a free transfer this past summer and showcasing his remarkable skills as an attacking player, Mbappé's defensive work rate has been the subject of considerable criticism from both fans and analysts alike.
According to reports from Relevo, Ancelotti has expressed concern over Mbappé’s lack of defensive contributions, particularly spotlighted during Real Madrid’s recent humiliating 4-0 loss to arch-rivals Barcelona. In that match, Mbappé reportedly covered only eight kilometers on the pitch, a statistic that has raised eyebrows regarding his commitment to the team’s defensive duties.
Ancelotti believes that this deficiency in defensive engagement from Mbappé is causing a critical imbalance throughout the team. He has pointed out that the inability to press effectively and retrieve possession is hampering Real Madrid’s overall performance, making it difficult for the squad to maintain their usual level of dominance.
The coach noted that the absence of a coordinated defensive effort from Mbappé is disrupting the team’s structure, which leaves Los Blancos particularly vulnerable when facing high-level opposition. The ramifications of this have been clear, as Madrid has experienced unexpected defeats, including a shocking loss to Lille in the Champions League and the recent setback in the El Clásico.
As Real Madrid looks to regain its footing, Ancelotti's comments signal a pressing need for all players, including star signings like Mbappé, to commit fully to both attacking and defensive responsibilities to ensure the team can compete at the highest level.