Kylian Mbappé's Journey at Real Madrid

Kylian Mbappé's arrival at Real Madrid was met with immense anticipation. However, his initial performances left much to be desired. From a record eight offsides in a crushing 4-0 defeat to Barcelona to a missed penalty in a 2-0 loss to Liverpool, Mbappé's start was far from stellar. By Christmas, he had only seven non-penalty goals in 21 matches, a disappointing return for a player of his caliber.

Turning the Tide

Post-holiday break, Mbappé began to show glimpses of his true potential. In nine matches, he scored seven non-penalty goals, signaling a return to form. Despite a recent scoreless streak, including a shocking 1-0 loss to Espanyol, there are signs that Mbappé is regaining his confidence and sharpness.

Sky-High Expectations

Mbappé's track record is nothing short of extraordinary. Since 2017-18, he ranks second in non-penalty goals and expected goals, third in expected goals assisted, and second in progressive carries and passes received among Europe's top leagues. His Champions League stats are equally impressive, with 36 non-penalty goals and 24.0 expected goals assisted, both ranking second and first, respectively.

Hitting Rock Bottom

Mbappé candidly admitted to hitting rock bottom after a missed penalty against Athletic Club. This moment of vulnerability was a turning point, prompting him to play with more personality and determination. His subsequent performances, including four goals in four games, showcased his resilience.

The Turning Point

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti noted that Mbappé's adaptation period had ended by mid-December. Experimenting with his position, Ancelotti found that Mbappé thrives as a center-forward, leveraging his unique off-the-ball movement. This strategic shift has been pivotal in Mbappé's resurgence.

Looking Ahead

With 15 goals and two assists by February, Mbappé's season is far from a write-off. Despite initial struggles, his underlying statistics suggest a player still capable of world-class performances. As Real Madrid gears up for crucial fixtures, including a clash with Atletico Madrid, all eyes will be on Mbappé to deliver when it matters most.

Conclusion

Kylian Mbappé's journey at Real Madrid is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. While his start was rocky, his recent form indicates a return to the high standards expected of him. As the season progresses, Mbappé has the opportunity to cement his legacy at one of the world's most prestigious clubs.