“They have opted for a name that sells shirts" - Pundit questions Real Madrid's decision to sign Kylian Mbappe
Former Watford striker Troy Deeney questioned Real Madrid's decision to sign Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain last summer. Once his agreement at the Parc des Princes ended, the France international joined Los Blancos on a free transfer.
However, he hasn't particularly been at his best this campaign despite notching up eight goals and two assists in 16 matches across competitions. Deeney believes that the 25-year-old's form comes down to the role he plays under Carlo Ancelotti.
Currently, Mbappe occupies the striker's position, and Vinicius Junior is deployed on the left flank. Deeney believes that the Frenchman's best position is out wide and not through the middle. Speaking on talkSPORT, he said (via Madrid Universal):
“I don’t think Mbappe is a natural centre forward. He can’t play on the left because Vinicius is there. Finding themselves in this situation is a huge mistake for Real Madrid."
"They have opted for a name that sells shirts and promotes the brand instead of what makes them win. Maybe they have to have a little conversation about playing on the right."
If Ancelotti is to move Mbappe to the right hand side, he will have to think about fitting Rodrygo within his system. Moreover, it would also leave the number nine position unclaimed.
Real Madrid as a team haven't hit the ground running this season, currently placed second in the La Liga standings, six points behind toppers Barcelona. However, they've played a game lesser than their arch-rivals.
Los Blancos have struggled in the UEFA Champions League as well, having racked up just six points in their first four matches.
Liverpool defender offers support to Kylian Mbappe amid tough start to life at Real Madrid
Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate says he and his France teammates are willing to help Kylian Mbappe with his ongoing problems. Amid an uninspiring start to life at Real Madrid, reports suggest that the attacker may be facing issues that go beyond the pitch.
In moments of such distress, Mbappe may need an arm around his shoulder and it seems as though Konate may be willing to provide that. He was quoted by Mundo Deportivo as saying (via Madrid Universal):
"If Kylian has psychological or personal problems in his daily life, we will always be there to help him."
To date the duo have shared the pitch on 17 occasions across competitions for Les Bleus and are without a joint goal contribution. Mbappe was left out for his country's 0-0 Nations League draw with Israel on Thursday (November 14).