Madrid, Spain - September 24 Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid observed during the La Liga match against Deportivo Alavés at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
After years of pursuit, Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez finally secured Kylian Mbappé this summer, marking the culmination of a passionate chase that lasted seven years and included three prior attempts. Mbappé signed a five-year contract with the club, leading many to believe that a new era had begun at the Santiago Bernabéu. However, initial enthusiasm has quickly turned to concern.
Recent reports from Relevo indicate that Pérez, along with many in Spain, is feeling disappointed by Mbappé’s performances over the first four months of his tenure. It has been noted that he expressed to Carlo Ancelotti the sentiment, "This is not the Mbappé that I signed." This statement resonates deeply, as it recalls Pérez's earlier comments during a notable interview with El Chiringuito. During that interview, he spoke candidly about Mbappé's decision to reject a move to Real Madrid in favor of extending his contract with Paris Saint-Germain, claiming that the player who chose to stay in Paris was "not my Mbappé," suggesting he was influenced by external pressures.
The primary concern for Real Madrid seems to revolve around Mbappé's role as a team leader. When he joined the club, he was heralded as the marquee player, expected to embrace a leadership position. However, his approach has been rather subdued, with many feeling that he has not yet stepped into the spotlight as anticipated. His performances on the field have been overshadowed by a lack of assertiveness and leadership qualities that fans and management alike were hoping to see. Instead of inspiring his teammates and setting a commanding tone, Mbappé's demeanor has remained low-key and somewhat reserved.
It is important to note that Real Madrid had initially wanted Mbappé to adopt a more understated profile as he transitioned into his new environment. Following the backlash he faced from the club's supporters three years ago, the strategy was to allow his on-field performances to speak for themselves. Up until the recent international break, he has largely flown under the radar, focusing on his game rather than drawing attention off the pitch.
As the season progresses, the pressure is mounting for Mbappé to prove his worth and justify the high expectations that come with wearing the iconic white jersey of Real Madrid. Fans are eager to see him emerge as the dynamic player they know he can be, one who not only dazzles with his talent but also galvanizes his teammates through his presence and leadership. For Pérez and the club, it’s imperative that Mbappé finds his rhythm and starts to embody the role of both star and leader, fulfilling the promise that led to his long-awaited signing.
While Kylian Mbappé's arrival at Real Madrid was celebrated as a significant coup, the reality of his early performances raises questions about his impact and leadership—elements that are crucial for a player of his stature. The hope is that he will soon rise to the occasion and become the influential figure that both the club and its supporters expect him to be.
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