The Athletic FC Podcast Has Mbappe overtaken Vinicius as Real Madrid's main man?
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Sep 17, 2025 Colin Millar, a tactical expert on Real Madrid, and Guillermo Rai, a dedicated correspondent, discuss the contrasting paths of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr after Madrid's recent victory in the Champions League. They dive into Mbappe's emerging leadership role and his scoring prowess while Vinicius finds himself benched. The podcast also explores Vinicius' contract situation, the impact of recent injuries, and Real Madrid's future transfer strategies, all while addressing ongoing disputes over officiating in football.
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Mbappé As Madrid’s Leading Figure
- Kylian Mbappé has become Real Madrid's undisputed central striker and penalty taker, boosting his leadership role.
- His responsibilities have increased his confidence and influence in Xabi Alonso's early tenure.
Alonso’s Role Clarity Boosts Mbappé
- Xabi Alonso has nudged Mbappé toward his best version by making him the clear number nine and leader.
- That clarity of role seems to have unlocked more consistent top-level displays from Mbappé.
Tactical Evolution, Not Revolution
- Alonso's change is more evolution than revolution: tactical discipline and compactness, not a wholesale style shift.
- Forwards must now be more disciplined and contribute defensively under his system.