Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has claimed Kylian Mbappé has used the international break to become “a different player” compared to the one he struggled with in his first few months in Spain.
As a wider entity, Madrid have underwhelmed so far this year, with Mbappe’s performances contributing to that malaise. Although he has seven goals in 11 games, three of those have come from the penalty spot, and many question whether the introduction of Mbappé has had a positive impact on the team.
ahead of MadridIn Saturday’s return to action against Celta Vigo, Ancelotti insisted fitness issues were behind Mbappé’s slow start and fans are ready to see a different side from him going forward.
“He took advantage of the break to improve his condition,” Ancelotti said. “He is very well, happy and eager to come back tomorrow and be important for the team. These 15 days have helped him a lot, because he has had time to overcome his injuries. Kylian Mbappé is a different player than he was before . the rest
“Tactically his position is not changed from how he has played in the last few games. His left wing position may vary with Vinicius but we have been focused on physical work. This break has gone well for him and he looks very good for me.”
Mbappe did not join the France squad for the last international break due to fitness issues. Instead, he came under fire for a trip to a Swedish nightclub, where local media have linked him to an investigation into an alleged sexual assault. Both Mbappe and his lawyers have strongly denied having anything to do with the allegations.
“I’m not here to comment on speculation, I don’t pay attention to what’s being said outside,” Ancelotti said of the speculation. “I focus on the work he does.
“I talk to the players every day. I can’t comment on what I said before, which at this point is speculation. I don’t see him affected at all, very excited to contribute to the team. He is close to 100 % It’s really nice to see him train.”
