"It takes some time to get used to it" - NBA star Luka Doncic backs Kylian Mbappe to turn fortunes around at Real Madrid
Dallas Mavericks guard Doncic has backed Kylian Mbappe to turn around his fortune at Real Madrid. He believes the Frenchman needs time to adapt at the club before he starts firing on all cylinders.
Speaking to Managing Madrid, Doncic stated that he followed Real Madrid after spending a few years with their basketball academy. He added that the slump in form is normal for Mbappe and the club, and backed them to find a solution soon. He said:
“I follow Real Madrid every time. I grew up there. They taught me everything, so it’s a part of my life. You can call it a secondary home. I learned a lot of stuff there and, especially, they gave me a way to be here right now (in Dallas). I always appreciate that 100%. Obviously (their season) could be better. But you know, when you get a guy like Mbappe, it takes some time to get used to it, but, we’ll figure it out.”
Kylian Mbappe had set himself a target of scoring 50 goals in his debut season with Real Madrid. However, things have got off to a rough start for the striker as he has scored just eight goals in 16 matches. Moreover, Los Blancos have not managed to hit their form from the last season.
Robert Pires tells Kylian Mbappe to face Real Madrid criticism
Robert Pires believes Kylian Mbappe should take the criticism to the chin and back himself to do better at Real Madrid. He added that criticism from the fans was normal as expectations were high, saying:
"Mbappe must face these criticisms, change his style of play, recognize that he is not at his best and improve his performance. Mbappe dreamed of playing for Madrid. He knows perfectly well that Vinícius, who is an exceptional player, plays in the same position as him, is decisive and scores a lot of goals. Mbappe must adapt to this situation and to the different tactics of the team. Turning down Real Madrid is difficult for any player."
“He is facing strong criticism in both France and Spain, as he is not at his best. Currently, he is not decisive for Madrid and is not scoring or creating many goal-scoring opportunities. Madrid fans had high expectations for Mbappé since his arrival at the Merengue team. However, changing country, team and teammates is not easy, especially when it comes to a club with the best players on the planet," he added.
Kylian Mbappe was left out of the France squad this week for their UEFA Nations League matches. Didier Deschamps stated that it was ideal for the former Monaco star to spend some time away from the spotlight.