Dermot Corrigan, a Madrid-based writer for The Athletic, is joined by analyst Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to dissect Kylian Mbappe's rocky start at Real Madrid. They delve into whether his high-profile transfer has hindered the team’s performance, discussing the disillusionment among fans and the stark contrast between Mbappe and emerging star Vinicius Jr. The duo explores the club’s challenges, from tactical misfits to pressing defensive needs, while contrasting expectations of fame with the harsh reality of on-field struggles.
Kylian Mbappe's disappointing start at Real Madrid has raised questions about his fit within the squad and fan support dynamics.
The team's struggles with injuries and outdated training methods have compounded Madrid's performance issues, affecting morale and strategies.
Deep dives
The Impact of Mbappe's Arrival at Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe's move to Real Madrid has not gone as expected, resulting in disappointment among fans and analysts. Initially viewed as a transformative signing with the potential to elevate the team's performance, he has struggled to find his form, contributing eight goals and two assists in 16 appearances. This discrepancy between expectations and reality has created a sense of unease, as fans reminisce about the prolific goal-scoring days of Cristiano Ronaldo. The team's struggles in La Liga and the Champions League further amplify concerns, leading to questions about Mbappe's fit within the squad.
Fan Responses to Player Performance
The performance of teammates like Vinicius Junior has overshadowed Mbappe, fostering an environment where fans are more supportive of the Brazilian, especially following his standout games. While Mbappe's initial excitement during his unveiling and his attempts to connect with the fanbase were promising, his current performance issues and lack of contribution on critical days have led to diminished enthusiasm. Vinicius's recent successes have drawn fans' affections, suggesting a shift in support that could affect the team's dynamics. As results falter, the warmth traditionally reserved for marquee signings like Mbappe may wane if he cannot consistently deliver on the pitch.
Injury Concerns and Team Dynamics
Real Madrid's recent injury crisis, with at least 25 reported injuries, has significantly impacted team performance and morale. The physical training methods employed by Antonio Pintus have come under scrutiny, as concerns grow over outdated techniques contributing to player fatigue and injuries. This situation is compounded by the pressure to perform without key players, forcing the coaching staff to reevaluate strategies and team dynamics further. The lack of proper reinforcements and squad depth, especially in defense, has raised alarms about Madrid's ability to navigate the demanding schedule.
Commercial Expectations and Player Relations
The commercial expectations surrounding Mbappe's arrival at Real Madrid were immense, with his signing viewed as a potential goldmine for merchandise sales and brand value. However, contrary to expectations, Mbappe jerseys have not dominated sales; instead, shirts of his teammates, notably Vinicius and Bellingham, have gained popularity. As performance on the field struggles to align with the high-profile signing's commercial appeal, questions arise about the broader impact on team cohesion and the pressure felt among players. The complex relationship between individual performances and collective morale becomes increasingly significant amid the club's mixed results.