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Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has defended Kylian Mbappe’s recent inconsistency, stating that such fluctuations are expected given the demanding nature of the season and the expectations placed on players of his calibre. Ancelotti addressed the issue following an underwhelming performances by Mbappe against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League and Real Betis in La Liga, which came just days after his impressive hat-trick against Manchester City.
Mbappe, who joined Madrid last summer from Paris Saint-Germain, had a slow start but had begun to show his potential, although his recent performances have caused concern among fans. “What we saw against Atletico was not the same as his performance against City,” Ancelotti said in a press conference ahead of Sunday’s La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano. “Against City, he scored three, but against Atletico, he did not score.”
Despite the fluctuations, Ancelotti remained positive about the 26-year-old’s overall form, acknowledging that it is normal for top players to experience these ups and downs. “In such a demanding season, inconsistency is quite normal, especially in players with such quality,” he remarked. “Players with quality have more ups and downs because of their genetic makeup.”
Mbappe’s overall record remains impressive, with 28 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions. His crucial goals in the Champions League tie against Manchester City, where he netted four goals over two legs, helped propel Madrid into the last 16.
Madrid, currently third in La Liga, are three points behind leaders Barcelona, who face Osasuna on Saturday. Ancelotti also provided an update on centre-back Antonio Rudiger, who may miss the Rayo Vallecano match due to illness, and expressed confidence ahead of the game, having had five days of rest since their previous defeat to Betis.
