Former Real Madrid player Frank Leboeuf has expressed harsh criticism towards Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham following the team’s defeat against Liverpool in the Champions League. This disappointing match saw Real Madrid lose 2-0 at Anfield, a situation exacerbated by Mbappé’s missed penalty, which could have equalized the score in the second half.
The defeat leaves Madrid in a precarious position in the Champions League, currently ranked 24th in the league phase after suffering three losses in five matches. Mbappé’s form has come under scrutiny, with only two goals scored in his last nine games for the club.
In response to the criticism, Gareth Bale has come to Mbappé’s defense, recalling his own experiences with penalty misses. He pointed out that setbacks are a part of being a professional player and emphasized that on his best days, Mbappé is the top player in the world. Bale remains optimistic, stating that it is only a matter of time before Mbappé regains his form.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged that Mbappé is grappling with a “lack of confidence” following that significant miss, urging fans to show patience with the gifted forward. Bellingham, a teammate, echoed Bale’s sentiments, highlighting the immense pressure Mbappé faces due to his exceptional talent. He reassured fans that the penalty miss did not determine the game’s outcome and expressed confidence that Mbappé would deliver more pivotal moments for the club in the future.
Looking ahead, Real Madrid is set to face Atalanta, RB Salzburg, and Brest in a bid to secure qualification for the Champions League knockout stage, while also gearing up for a La Liga match against Getafe this Sunday.
In summary, despite the current struggles, both teammates and coaches remain hopeful about Mbappé’s potential to bounce back and contribute significantly to Real Madrid’s success in upcoming matches. This situation serves as a reminder that even the best players have moments of difficulty, but with support and persistence, they can overcome challenges.