Real Madrid finally got its La Liga campaign underway with a comfortable 3-0 victory against Real Valladolid at the Bernabeu. The defending champions needed the three points after an underwhelming display at Mallorca on matchday one. Fede Valverde, Brahim Diaz, and Endrick managed to get on the scoresheet. One cause of disappointment, however, was Kylian Mbappe still unable to find the back of the net in La Liga.
Even apart from his actions in the final third, Mbappe looked visibly off-the-pace. Neutral and rival fans trolled the French captain brutally while Madridistas were left frustrated with their star-signing of the summer. Coach, Carlo Ancelotti, though, came to his player’s defence and reassured the fanbase of Mbappe’s prowess. “He is a spectacular forward, Today he had three or four chances and he is going to score as he has always scored”, were the words of the Italian after the game.
Also Read: Real Madrid star Bellingham injures right leg; to return in September
Kylian Mbappe will be relieved to hear his manager’s support. Evidently, the 25-year-old is still adapting to his new environment and will need positive backing off the field. Ancelotti‘s renowned man-management skills will undoubtedly assist Mbappe moving forward. The 65-year-old will be trying different setups and systems in training to unleash the best form of the club’s latest Galactico.
Kylian Mbappe still adjusting to Carlo Ancelotti’s formation
The legendary Real Madrid coach altered his highly successful 4-2-2-2 formation to a traditional 4-3-3 in order to accommodate his star-studded forward line. Consequently, Mbappe has been assigned the role of the number nine. Even though Ancelotti’s system is flooded with positional flexibilities and rotations, Mbappe has been unable to operate from his preferred left-wing spot with Vinicius Jr. already occupying the flank. There have been flashes of brilliance from the Frenchman but his opening games suggest he still needs time to get in sync with the gameplan.
Even on an off-day, Kylian Mbappe was able to have three big chances in front of goal. Real Madrid supporters will be optimistic that his goal drought ends on Thursday against Las Palmas. Mbappe has arrived amidst a great deal of expectations and will need to hit the ground running quickly. Positional variations can be expected in the upcoming games to instil confidence back in Mbappe’s game.