KYLIAN MBAPPÉ REAL MADRID CRITICISM TAKES CENTRE STAGE
The preseason is barely underway, but Kylian Mbappé Real Madrid criticism has already begun surfacing across Spain. The 25-year-old’s move from PSG to Real Madrid was hailed as a new era, but early performances suggest the honeymoon may be over before it began.
Spanish outlets such as Marca and AS have expressed concern over Mbappé’s lack of influence in Madrid’s recent friendlies. In 178 minutes of play, he has registered just one shot on target and no assists, according to Transfermarkt. While the numbers may be early, critics argue that Mbappé is yet to justify his enormous billing.
FRENCH MEDIA STRIKES BACK AGAINST EARLY CRITICISM
In France, the reaction has been swift and defensive. L’Équipe and RMC Sport both claim that the Spanish criticism is laced with lingering resentment over Mbappé’s previous decision to snub Madrid in 2022.
“They never forgave him. This isn’t about football — it’s about wounded pride,” wrote a columnist on RMC.
Despite questions over form, Mbappé’s commercial power is undeniable. Within 24 hours of his unveiling, over 500,000 Real Madrid shirts bearing his name were sold — more than Bellingham and Hazard combined. This success, covered by Forbes, underscores his market pull.
TACTICS, ROLE, AND FIT — ANCELOTTI’S DILEMMA
Another layer fueling the Kylian Mbappé Real Madrid criticism is tactical. Ancelotti has played him as a central striker — a role he rarely occupied at PSG, where he thrived cutting in from the left. According to Opta, just 19% of his career minutes have come in a central position.
With stars like Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo already established, the reshuffling is noticeable. Some fans argue the team dynamic now appears disrupted. Others say it’s only a matter of time before the chemistry clicks.
ATLANTA AND GLOBAL FANS JOIN THE CONVERSATION
The reaction isn’t limited to Europe. In Atlanta, where the global game is growing rapidly, debates on platforms like Fox Sports and ESPN FC have drawn parallels between Mbappé and former Galácticos who initially struggled under the Santiago Bernabéu spotlight.
With €30 million annually making him the highest-paid player in La Liga, expectations are sky-high — and patience is thin.
CAN MBAPPÉ SILENCE THE NOISE?
As Real Madrid prepares for competitive matches, all eyes remain on their latest superstar. For now, the narrative around Kylian Mbappé Real Madrid criticism remains unresolved — but one thing is certain: silence won’t be enough. Mbappé must deliver on the pitch.
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