Kylian Mbappé’s highly anticipated move to Real Madrid in June 2024 was seen as a milestone in his career. Joining Los Blancos on a free transfer after his PSG contract expired, the 2018 World Cup winner reportedly secured a €150 million signing bonus and a €15 million annual salary. During his unveiling at the Santiago Bernabéu on July 16, Mbappé described the move as “a dream come true.”
Despite the fanfare surrounding his arrival, Mbappé's integration into the team has faced challenges. Real Madrid currently trails Barcelona by six points in La Liga and has experienced setbacks in Europe, including defeats to AC Milan and Lille, leaving them 18th in their Champions League group.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti has opted to play Mbappé as a central striker in a front three, flanked by Vinícius Jr. on the left and Rodrygo on the right. However, this setup has raised concerns, as both Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. naturally thrive on the left wing, where they can cut inside to attack. This positional overlap has sparked debates about the team’s cohesion and effectiveness.
Mbappé has delivered solid individual performances, netting eight goals in 16 appearances. However, fans and analysts believe a shift in his role might unlock his true potential. These discussions gained momentum after training footage surfaced, showing Mbappé excelling in his preferred left-wing position, displaying the skills and sharpness that defined his PSG career.
Fans have been vocal about the need for a change. One supporter commented, “Play him on the left wing, and he will cook,” while another argued, “He’s better than Vinícius Jr., and it’s only a matter of time before he claims that position.”
As Real Madrid looks to regain form, Ancelotti faces the challenge of optimizing Mbappé’s role without disrupting the balance of his star-studded lineup. Fans are hopeful that the right adjustments will not only maximize Mbappé’s impact but also reignite the team’s season.