1. Kylian Mbappé and Real Madrid’s Growing Struggles Post-El Clásico
Following a devastating 4-0 loss in El Clásico, Real Madrid and Kylian Mbappe faced immense pressure to deliver a convincing win against AC Milan in the Champions League. The Santiago Bernabeu was hoping for a display of resilience that would indicate Real Madrid’s recovery under Carlo Ancelotti, especially with their new Kylian Mbappé-led project. However, Madrid’s 3-1 loss to Milan showed more signs of trouble, casting doubt on the Spanish and European champions’ chances of progressing smoothly through the Champions League group stage.
2. A Frustrating Night with Missed Opportunities
Madrid’s performance against Milan highlighted similar problems from their recent 5-2 comeback victory over Borussia Dortmund. Unlike that night, Madrid lacked a second-half rally, and despite creating several chances, Madrid only managed to convert once, ending with a staggering 23 shots, 10 of which were on target. Ancelotti attempted to energize the team by making five substitutions in the second half, introducing players like Eduardo Camavinga, Brahim Díaz, and Rodrygo. However, the changes only added confusion. Madrid had a disallowed goal by Antonio Rüdiger, and Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan made critical saves, ensuring Madrid’s night ended in disappointment.
3. Mbappé’s Challenges in Leading Madrid’s Attack
Kylian Mbappé, Madrid’s marquee signing, was anticipated to bring renewed attacking prowess. Yet, against Milan, he missed multiple scoring opportunities, managing eight shots but with only three on target, resulting in an expected goals (xG) tally of 0.54. Madrid fans grew frustrated, especially as other key players like Luka Modric and Jude Bellingham struggled to find their rhythm. The home crowd even expressed discontent with Aurélien Tchouaméni, who was substituted at halftime, illustrating the increasing tension surrounding Madrid’s lackluster performances.
4. Bellingham and Vinícius: Navigating New Roles
Kylian Mbappé’s integration has introduced uncertainty into the roles of Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior. Despite his talents, Bellingham has yet to score this season, a surprising contrast to his 13 goals at this point in his debut season with Madrid. Ancelotti experimented with Bellingham’s positioning, shifting him between left and right midfield, yet the English midfielder still appears out of sync. Vinícius, however, showed glimpses of his quality by winning and scoring a “panenka” penalty to bring Madrid level at 1-1, only for Milan to respond quickly and regain control of the game.
5. Defensive Woes and Former Madrid Players Strike Back
Real Madrid’s defense, once a pillar of strength, has faltered, conceding 10 goals in their last four games. Stand-in goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was repeatedly left vulnerable as Milan exploited Madrid’s wide-open midfield. Milan forward Álvaro Morata, a former Madrid player, continued his tradition of scoring against his former club, putting Milan up 2-1 just before halftime. Morata’s goal marked his seventh strike against Madrid, adding to a trend of former players haunting their old teams.
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6. Pressure Mounts Ahead of Crucial Fixtures
Real Madrid now faces a month-long wait before their next Champions League game against Premier League leaders Liverpool. Before that, LaLiga fixtures against Osasuna and Leganés loom, and these games could either provide a much-needed lift or exacerbate their issues. With the break approaching, Madrid must address these challenges, especially with Ancelotti under rising pressure. The club will hope Kylian Mbappé can find his form and steer them back on course, as every performance moving forward will be critical.
