Real Madrid struggles as Kylian Mbappé's potential goes unfulfilled

In Spain, Kylian Mbappé's performances for Real Madrid have become a topic of scrutiny, particularly as the club has been experiencing a downturn in form. Since his arrival, the French forward has consistently found himself as a focal point for criticism despite his tally of a goal every two games, which is generally considered respectable for a forward in the current football climate. This scrutiny emerges not solely from his individual performances but also from the underlying issues within the team structure. Real Madrid's line-up seems ill-equipped to optimize Mbappé's talents, leading to questions about his fit in a squad that’s already rich in attacking players. The transition period for Real Madrid has been especially challenging. With the absence of key midfielder Toni Kroos, the side has lost significant control in the midfield. This gap has exposed the tactical limitations of the current team, highlighting the fact that relying on players like Mbappé for individual moments of brilliance is not a sustainable strategy. Instead, the team needs a cohesive structure where roles are clearly defined and players complement each other's strengths. There was a time earlier in the season when Ancelotti's reliance on individual talent had led to moments of success, but that has since been overshadowed by a lack of balance on the pitch. Additionally, Mbappé's own reputation precedes him, creating pressure that is hard to escape. Despite portrayed as a potential future legend at Madrid, he has been described as a player with a significant ego. However, personal accounts emphasize his humility and maturity off the field, which raises the question of whether the external expectations placed on him are fair. His situation is emblematic of a broader theme in football where clubs chase star players at the expense of cohesion, leading to disparities that can hinder overall performance. In conclusion, while Kylian Mbappé’s individual talent is recognized, the current structure of Real Madrid is causing frustrations for both the player and the team. Rebuilding the squad to integrate Mbappé effectively while also ensuring overall team balance will be key if Real Madrid hopes to maximize the contributions of their expensive acquisition and return to their previous level of dominance.