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With Vinícius Júnior sidelined due to injury, Kylian Mbappé will lead Real Madrid’s attack in their crucial UEFA Champions League showdown against Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday.
The French star, a marquee summer signing, broke his five-game goal drought with a strike in Madrid’s 2-0 La Liga victory over Leganés on Sunday. Deployed on the left wing for the first time under coach Carlo Ancelotti, Mbappé thrived, scoring the opener from a Vinícius assist. However, with the Brazilian out for three weeks, Madrid’s reliance on Mbappé has significantly increased.
Real Madrid sit in a precarious 18th place in their group after surprise defeats to Lille and AC Milan, while Liverpool top the table. Vinícius has netted four times in the competition compared to Mbappé’s lone Champions League goal this season.
Despite scoring seven goals in 12 La Liga appearances, Mbappé’s form has faced scrutiny. The French captain admitted he’s still adapting to his new surroundings.
Carlo Ancelotti faces tough decisions in setting up Madrid’s depleted squad for the Anfield clash. Injuries to Rodrygo, Lucas Vázquez, Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, and Éder Militão have left the Spanish champions stretched thin.
Ancelotti had previously resisted starting Mbappé on the left flank due to Vinícius’ preference for the same position. However, Mbappé’s struggles as a central striker prompted a tactical rethink.
In Vinícius’ absence, Ancelotti may experiment with a two-man attack, potentially pairing Mbappé with Jude Bellingham. The England international, instrumental in Madrid’s attack last season, has played a deeper role this year to accommodate Mbappé’s arrival.
Off the pitch, Mbappé has faced challenges, including a rape allegation in Sweden, which he dismissed as fake news, and a financial dispute with former club PSG. Ancelotti, however, backed his star player, calling speculation over his mental health “ugly.”
A goal against Leganés has eased some pressure on Mbappé, but all eyes will be on him to deliver against Liverpool as Madrid look to revive their Champions League campaign.
