Mbappe Faces Pressure to Shine After Slow Start at Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe’s transition to Real Madrid has not gone as smoothly as expected. Despite scoring 11 goals in 21 appearances, his performances have been inconsistent, leaving fans and critics wanting more. Ahead of their pivotal match against Atalanta, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti admitted, “He isn’t at his best level, but we have to give him time to adapt. He can do better.”
Mbappe, one of the world’s most electrifying players, has struggled to meet the sky-high expectations that followed his blockbuster move from PSG. Missed penalties against Liverpool in the Champions League and Athletic Bilbao in La Liga only fueled concerns.
Off-field distractions have not helped either. Mbappe has faced controversies surrounding unpaid salary claims with PSG and ongoing legal reports in Sweden. However, the French forward dismissed those rumors, telling Canal+, “I received nothing, no summons… I’m not involved.”
Ancelotti remains confident Mbappe will find his top form soon, but the Atalanta clash is now a proving ground. Real Madrid desperately need their star forward to step up and deliver when it matters most.
Real Madrid’s Injury Crisis Adds to Ancelotti’s Woes
Real Madrid heads into this crucial showdown against an in-form Atalanta with a long list of injury problems. Key players like Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Ferland Mendy are all sidelined. Even midfield powerhouse Aurelien Tchouameni, who has often filled in as an emergency defender, has only recently returned.
Ancelotti has had to experiment with his squad, particularly in defense, which has left Madrid vulnerable. Despite these challenges, the return of Brazilian stars Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes provides some much-needed firepower in attack.
However, Vinicius’ comeback reintroduces a tactical dilemma. Both Vinicius and Mbappe favor playing on the left wing, which has forced Ancelotti to shuffle the lineup. While Mbappe has primarily played as a center-forward this season, finding a way for both superstars to thrive simultaneously is crucial for Madrid’s success.
Atalanta, meanwhile, are flying high, sitting fifth in the Champions League standings and leading Serie A. The Italian side’s unbeaten run in Europe this season adds even more pressure on a struggling Madrid team to perform.
Ancelotti Calls for Optimism as Madrid Look to Rebound
Real Madrid’s form this season has been far from their usual elite standards. The team has already lost five games across all competitions, a stark contrast to last season when they stumbled only twice. Despite these setbacks, Ancelotti remains defiant.
“It’s not a funeral—we’re still fighting in all competitions,” Ancelotti said following their recent loss to Athletic Bilbao. He added, “We have not been able to find our best form, but I am convinced we will sooner or later.”
Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Girona in La Liga last weekend provided a glimmer of hope. That dominant performance, powered by a more cohesive attacking display, showed that this squad still has the quality to turn things around. However, consistency remains the key.
For Mbappe and Real Madrid, the match against Atalanta is more than just a game. It’s an opportunity to silence critics, restore confidence, and prove that this team can still compete at the highest level.
Real Madrid’s trip to face Atalanta is a defining moment in their season. Kylian Mbappe must rise to the occasion and show why he’s regarded as one of football’s greatest talents. With injuries piling up and their Champions League future on the line, Madrid cannot afford another misstep.
Ancelotti’s squad has faced adversity before and delivered when it mattered most. Now, all eyes are on Mbappe and his ability to lead the team out of this turbulent period. If Madrid can secure a statement win in Bergamo, it might just mark the turning point they desperately need.
For the Spanish giants, the time to act is now—and for Mbappe, it’s time to prove he truly can do better.
