"He doesn't behave like a star" - Real Madrid star makes bold claims about Kylian Mbappe
Real Madrid have added another trophy to their cabinet by defeating Atalanta to win the 2024 UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday, August 14. Kylian Mbappe certainly made a significant impact on his debut, scoring Madrid’s second goal of the night, which ultimately secured the victory. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois praised the Frenchman's influence following their recent success.
Carlo Ancelotti started with Jude Bellingham positioned behind Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo, but Atalanta appeared well-prepared to face Real Madrid’s firepower. However, Madrid’s attacking quality paid off in the second half.
The floodgates were opened when Vinicius dazzled past the Atalanta defense and assisted Federico Valverde for the opening goal in the 59th minute. Mbappe then made it two in the 68th minute, showcasing his excellent movement in the penalty area before netting via a Bellingham assist.
Courtois, who had a relatively quiet night except for one impressive save, spoke about Mbappe’s impact, noting that the 25-year-old has always remained humble despite his achievements.
“It’s more fun to have Mbappe in your team, than to play against him. I hope he will score many more goals. He is a normal guy, he doesn’t behave like a star," Courtois said (via EuropeanLad on X).
Ancelotti deployed Mbappe as the central striker, but allowed him the flexibility to rotate positions with Vinicius and Rodrygo on the flanks.
Although Atalanta managed to limit his influence for much of the game, Mbappe’s intelligent movement, particularly as the game opened up in the second half, improved Madrid’s attacking approach.
Carlo Ancelotti praises Kylian Mbappe’s performance after Real Madrid’s win over Atalanta
The scoreline does not fully reflect the struggles faced by Los Blancos, who had to work hard against Atalanta’s aggressive pressing. However, once Madrid shifted gears around the hour mark, the Italian side had little chance of making a comeback.
Regarding Mbappe’s performance, Ancelotti expressed satisfaction with how his star forward played, particularly appreciating his work rate without the ball.
"Mbappe has enormous quality. He worked well. He combined, he worked defensively. Like the team, they were not good in the first half. When a game opens up and we have more space, it is easier for us. Vini contributed a lot, everyone. Bellingham, Rodrygo. In the second half we played very well," Ancelotti said (via ManagingMadrid).
The Real Madrid manager also discussed how his team’s patience in wearing down Atalanta before delivering the decisive blow benefited them in the second half.
"We suffered a bit in the first half, because Atalanta pressed hard and played very well defensively. In the second half the game opened up a bit, they showed signs of fatigue and we had more space. In the first half they won more duels than us and we had more difficulties. With space, Rodrygo, Vinicius and Mbappe are very dangerous," Ancelotti added.
Real Madrid will kick off their La Liga defense against Mallorca on Sunday, August 18.