Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has offered his support to Kylian Mbappe, acknowledging the French striker’s tough patch but expressing confidence in his ability to overcome the difficulties. Despite recent challenges, including a sexual assault investigation in Sweden and struggles to perform at his usual high level in Madrid, Mbappe remains motivated, according to Ancelotti.
Mbappe, who was left out of the French squad for the upcoming Nations League matches, has been under scrutiny for both his off-field issues and a lack of form on the pitch. The 25-year-old’s absence from France’s squad for their matches against Israel and Italy has raised questions about his current status.
“Mbappe is down but not out,” Ancelotti said, noting that while the striker has faced tough moments, he is still motivated to get back to his best. The club has been struggling as well, suffering a 4-0 defeat to Barcelona in La Liga and a 3-1 loss to AC Milan at the Santiago Bernabeu earlier this week. These setbacks have left Real Madrid nine points behind Barcelona in the league standings.
Ancelotti refused to single out Mbappe for the team’s recent struggles, stating, “The problem he’s having is everyone’s problem. We haven’t hit our stride yet. But I’m convinced Mbappe is going to get through this difficult moment.”
The coach also pointed to other players such as Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham, noting that the entire team is experiencing a tough period. “You can’t let your head drop. You have to hold it high,” Ancelotti emphasized.
While Ancelotti refrained from commenting on Mbappe’s exclusion from the French squad, he stressed that it was a decision for France coach Didier Deschamps to make. France will face Israel on November 14 at the Stade de France, followed by a match against Italy in Milan three days later.