'He has no ego' - Carlo Ancelotti defends Kylian Mbappe amidst criticsm over Real Madrid output

'He has no ego' - Carlo Ancelotti defends Kylian Mbappe amidst criticsm over Real Madrid output

Stephen Awino 13:26 - 09.11.2024

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has heaped praise on high-profile summer signing Kylian Mbappe for his attitude during the short time that he has been with the Spanish giants.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has commended Kylian Mbappe for his smooth adaptation to life in Madrid following his high-profile summer transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.

Ancelotti’s praise, shared with French outlet L’Equipe, highlighted Mbappe’s attitude and team-oriented mindset, which have already earned him respect and camaraderie within a Real Madrid squad known for its big personalities.

“Mbappe has no ego,” Ancelotti remarked emphatically.

“He came here and immediately integrated well into the team, establishing good relationships with his teammates. He arrived with perfect spirit," he added.

After years of speculation and persistent pursuit by Real Madrid, Mbappe’s arrival on a free transfer from PSG was a landmark moment, signaling the club’s ambition to secure one of the world’s best players.

His move to Madrid was seen as a statement of intent for the club, which has long established itself as Europe’s dominant force.

However, while the Frenchman's presence has been felt in La Liga, his scoring rate hasn’t yet matched the prolific output he achieved in the French league.

In 10 appearances this season, Mbappe has scored six times for Real Madrid, with three goals coming from penalties.

His tally leaves him eight goals behind league leader Robert Lewandowski, who tops yhe La Liga scoring charts with 14 goals.

Though this may seem underwhelming by Mbappe’s high standards, Ancelotti believes it’s not a sign of struggle but rather an indicator of his willingness to adapt to a different system and role within the squad.

One key factor affecting Mbappe’s start at Madrid is his deployment on the field.

Known for his lethal speed and agility on the left wing, the World Cup winner has found himself occupying the center-forward role for much of his time in Madrid.

This shift is largely due to the prominence of Vinicius Junior, who has firmly established himself on the left flank, and is currently regarded as one of the best, if not the best winger in the world.

For Mbappe, who thrives when cutting in from the left to attack defenders, this role adjustment presents a learning curve, one Ancelotti believes the Frenchman is more than equal to.