Kylian Mbappe’s long-awaited arrival at Real Madrid was met with sky-high expectations, yet the French superstar is off to a sluggish start.
In what is shaping up to be his worst beginning to a season in nearly five years, Mbappe has netted just one goal in four appearances for Los Blancos.
The pressure is mounting as Real Madrid’s new-look squad, under the leadership of Carlo Ancelotti, struggles to find its rhythm both defensively and offensively.
The recent 1-1 draw against UD Las Palmas underscored the team’s ongoing issues. The absence of the creative brilliance once provided by veteran midfielder Toni Kroos has left a noticeable void in the squad.
Mbappe, despite his undeniable talent, has not been immune to the team’s struggles. His only goal this season came during the UEFA Super Cup—far from the desired impact in La Liga, where he is yet to score.
Statistical Woes
Mbappe’s numbers this season are concerning. He currently has the worst difference between shots (20) and Expected Goals (1.8) among players in Europe’s top five leagues.
This lack of efficiency in front of goal is uncharacteristic of the 25-year-old, who has consistently been among the top scorers in the world.
The last time Mbappe began a season this poorly was in 2019 when he was still playing for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Even then, he had managed to find the back of the net once—a mark he has yet to reach in his La Liga debut.
The Spanish media has not been kind to Mbappe. As Real Madrid’s marquee signing, he was expected to lead the line with flair and effectiveness, but so far, he has fallen short.
Critics have pointed out that he is the only forward in the squad who has failed to score in La Liga this season, adding to the mounting scrutiny around his performances.
Real Madrid’s Struggles
While Mbappe’s lack of goals has been a focal point, Real Madrid’s overall form has also come into question. Ancelotti’s side appears unbalanced defensively and lacking in creativity.
The defensive frailties were on full display against UD Las Palmas, where Madrid struggled to contain counterattacks and looked vulnerable at the back.
Offensively, the absence of a playmaker like Kroos has stifled the flow of attacks, making it difficult for forwards like Mbappe to get the service they need.
Real Madrid’s faithful had hoped that Mbappe’s arrival would signal the dawn of a new era, but so far, the team has not lived up to expectations.
Ancelotti has called for patience, acknowledging that the squad is still adjusting to changes and that Mbappe will need time to fully integrate into the system.
Looking Ahead
Mbappe’s goal drought is certainly a cause for concern, but with the season still in its early stages, there is time for the French star to turn things around.
His talent and track record suggest that this dry spell is likely temporary, but both the player and the team will need to find solutions quickly.
Real Madrid’s next few fixtures could prove pivotal, not only for the club’s aspirations but also for Mbappe’s confidence.
As pressure mounts, all eyes will be on the French forward to see if he can recapture his form and deliver on the promise that came with his blockbuster move to the Spanish capital.
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