Carlo Ancelotti Discusses Real Madrid’s Game Plan and Kylian Mbappé’s Role

Carlo Ancelotti, head coach of Real Madrid, addressed the media in a press conference held on Thursday ahead of the club’s upcoming match against Leganés. The discussion predominantly revolved around the team’s preparation and the performance of its players, particularly focusing on Kylian Mbappé’s form and role within the squad.

During the session, Ancelotti commented on the current status of the French international Kylian Mbappé, who recently faced scrutiny after Didier Deschamps, manager of the French national team, chose not to include him in the international squad. «Kylian never demanded a fixed position on the field. He has returned from injury exceptionally well, and he scored goals, which is crucial for us,» Ancelotti remarked, reinforcing Mbappé’s importance to the team.

Ancelotti also utilized the presence of eight academy players—including Súnico, Mestre, Asencio, David Jiménez, Diego Aguado, Cristian David, Yáñez, and Gonzalo—during training sessions at Valdebebas. Despite this, he stressed that giving them playtime is not the club’s primary goal. «Our affection for the youth academy is essential, and many players have emerged from it,» he affirmed, acknowledging the enduring legacy and future potential of newly scouted talent.

Addressing further questions, Ancelotti referenced the squad’s tactical strategies, particularly focusing on overall team dynamics. «Some players, like Kylian and Vinicius, are adaptable and do not have a fixed position,» he explained, emphasizing their flexibility and ability to adjust to the game’s demands.

Changes in defensive strategies were also noted, with Ancelotti mentioning maneuvers involving players such as Raúl Asencio and Mendy. «We have concentrated our efforts on the defense,» he said, explaining the ongoing assessments of potential right-back candidates, even while highlighting that forwards like Mbappé do not require focus or instruction in their natural offensive roles.

Concluding his remarks, Ancelotti admitted the necessity of granting younger members time to grow into roles of increased responsibility, especially following the loss of a key defender, Carvajal, while assuring that the present and future talent of Real Madrid rest on a solid foundation.