'The Time for Adjustment has Ended': Examination of Kylian Mbappé's Integration into Real Madrid
In the 24th game of the season, Kylian Mbappe finds himself in Madrid's winter break after a challenging initial stint with the team, surpassing expectations for some.
The French powerhouse has relieved the team's burden for underpar performances, and his recent form at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu indicates a turnaround in fortune. Emerging from a brief spell on the sidelines due to a muscle injury, Mbappe returned in December to secure a goal against Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final win and then added another against Sevilla in La Liga.
In a press conference before their last game of 2024, coach Carlo Ancelotti declared with confidence, "His adjustment period is over. He is already showcasing a strong version, although he can still improve. He has recovered from his last injury, and his motivation and enthusiasm are at peak levels. He required this time, as many do, but it has come to an end."
Mbappe, absent only three times since joining, has largely been an undisputed starter in the Real Madrid lineup. The team's victories were notably absent during these uncommon non-appearances, tied against Atletico Madrid and Rayo Vallecano due to muscle injuries, and a 1-0 Champions League defeat to Lille where he appeared as a second-half substitute.
Despite occasional criticism of his commitment, Mbappe's struggles to find his place in a system that sought to deploy both him and Vinícius Júnior on the left created challenges. Ancelotti's recent strategy to employ more central positions for both players seems to yield positive results.
Mbappe's impressive goal count, underperforming or not
One might find it puzzling that a 14-goal scorer still faces harsh judgment, but it mirrors an array of challenges Mbappe has faced. In the kaleidoscopic adoration at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, he has yet to fully win over the crowd's affection.
Mbappe has enjoyed plenty of scoring opportunities since joining, with an expected goals (xG) count of 16.43. Despite this, his current goal tally falls short, at 14 goals, resulting in a slight underperformance. His average of 4.8 shots and 2.5 shots on target per 90 minutes in La Liga lead all players in the league.
Comparing Mbappe's performance to his goalscoring rival Vinícius Júnior shows an interesting trend. The Brazilian has netted 13 goals, with 9.28 xG and 310 fewer minutes played. Mbappe's shots per 90 minutes average of 3.2 and 1 shot on target per 90 minutes are slightly lower, but his goal count is close to that of his teammate Vinícius Júnior.
This comparison presents Mbappe with his greatest challenge—being compared to the domain's elite names. Adapting to a new league, a new team, and transitioning to a new position is no trivial affair, and Mbappe has recognized this challenge, posting in a public message, "I take full responsibility. It's a challenging time, but it's the perfect moment to alter this situation and demonstrate my true abilities."
Mbappe's response to his most challenging phase
Following his Instagram post following a defeat to Athletic Club on Dec. 4, the Frenchman's performance improved. His responses to the setbacks left a lasting impact, scoring in all four of his subsequent appearances. Since his comeback from injury, he has claimed a goal and an assist in each game against Pachuca and Sevilla, and was even named MVP against Sevilla in La Liga for his exceptional performance. During the game, he outperformed other players with the most chances created and scored the game's opening goal.
If Ancelotti's assessment holds true, Mbappe's 2025 season in the Real Madrid jersey could bring significant triumphs. Winning another trophy in the Spanish Super Cup will mark the beginning of an exciting year, with hopes of leading the team to glory boosting their enthusiasm.
After overcoming his initial struggles and a brief injury, Kylian Mbappé has become a crucial player for Real Madrid in La Liga. His recent performances at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, including goals against Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final and Sevilla in La Liga, have significantly contributed to the team's success.
As the 2025 season approaches, coach Carlo Ancelotti has high hopes for Mbappé, predicting that he will continue to improve and potentially lead the team to more victories and trophies, such as the Spanish Super Cup.
