Kylian Mbappé is undeniably settling into his role at Real Madrid, a sentiment echoed by head coach Carlo Ancelotti. With the upcoming match against Sevilla marking the final outing of 2024, Ancelotti confirmed that Mbappé’s “period of adaptation has finished.” After an explosive performance that included a goal in Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, the young French forward has showcased his prowess on the field. This season alone, Mbappé has amassed an impressive tally of 13 goals across various competitions, contributing to Real Madrid’s success in clinching both the UEFA Super Cup and the Intercontinental Cup.
Mbappé’s recent form has been a significant asset for Madrid, punctuated by five goals in his last seven outings. The rapid recovery from a hamstring injury—sustained during a UEFA Champions League match against Atalanta—demonstrates his resilience and determination to be a key player for the team. Ancelotti praised Mbappé’s motivation and overall sharpness, indicating that not only has he returned to full fitness, but he is also eager to contribute even further. Ancelotti’s emphasis on the player needing to refine his consistency underlines the ongoing development of Mbappé’s game. The coach pointed out that while Mbappé has the potential to excel, he must prioritize making impactful runs into the box and utilizing his explosive pace effectively.
Ancelotti lamented the frequent injuries plaguing his squad, particularly impacting the chemistry and efficiency of his attacking unit that includes Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo Goes. The lack of consistent on-field time together means that the team hasn’t yet fully capitalized on the potential synergy among these talented players. Nonetheless, Ancelotti expressed optimism about their combination play, acknowledging that different formations and roles on the field have been trialed with promising results. Recognizing each player’s unique abilities, the manager intends to provide space and freedom for them to express their talents without restricting them to specific positions.
As Real Madrid gears up for their encounter with Sevilla, they find themselves in a tightly contested La Liga race alongside Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. Ancelotti remarked that this season promises to be more competitive than in previous years, as Atlético Madrid’s resources and talent position them to be formidable contenders. With the critical clash between Barcelona and Atlético occurring shortly before Madrid faces Sevilla, the stakes are high. Ancelotti is prepared for the challenges ahead, with the return of players like Ferland Mendy and the anticipated reintegration of David Alaba by mid-January bolstering his squad’s depth.
Kylian Mbappé’s journey at Real Madrid is still in its early stages, yet the signs of his imminent breakthrough are unmistakable. With continued support from his management and teammates, the talented forward is poised to make a significant impact in La Liga and beyond.