Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear that Kylian Mbappe’s recent struggles on the pitch are not his alone but a reflection of the team’s broader inconsistencies this season. The French superstar, who joined Real Madrid over the summer after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, has been under scrutiny after missing a penalty in Madrid’s Champions League defeat to Liverpool—a game that marked the team’s third loss in five European fixtures.
“Mbappe’s problem is the problem that we all have,” Ancelotti stated in a press conference ahead of Sunday’s La Liga clash against Getafe. “It’s not about one player. The entire team hasn’t been consistent, and we all need to improve, myself included. Mbappe is adapting, and he’s already contributed with eight goals and assists in attack. Yes, he can do better, but so can all of us.”
With just two goals in his last nine matches, Mbappe’s performance has drawn criticism from fans and analysts. His transition to life at the Santiago Bernabeu hasn’t been smooth, compounded by his omission from the last two France squad lists and reported off-field distractions.
However, Ancelotti defended his star striker, emphasizing that Mbappe remains focused and determined. “He knows he has to improve, like we all do. He’s being scrutinized for the missed penalty, but that happens to many players,” the coach said.
Ancelotti pointed to injuries as a significant factor in the Liverpool defeat, with key players like Vinicius Junior, Dani Carvajal, and Eder Militao sidelined. Despite these setbacks, Brazilian winger Rodrygo is fit and ready for the upcoming match against Getafe.
Madrid currently trails La Liga leaders Barcelona by four points but has a game in hand. Ancelotti, like Mbappe, admitted that the team’s results reflect their challenges but expressed confidence in their ability to bounce back. “I’m not happy, but I’m convinced we’ll fix it, like we always do.”
The Getafe clash will serve as a critical test for both Mbappe and Madrid to regain momentum in their domestic campaign. While the pressure is mounting, Ancelotti’s vote of confidence in his team—and in Mbappe—suggests that Madrid is determined to turn the tide and show the world their best version.