Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe is going through a challenging period but remains determined to improve, according to manager Carlo Ancelotti.
Since his free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Madrid in July, the 25-year-old France international has struggled with consistency at the Santiago Bernabeu.
While Mbappe has netted eight goals in 15 matches for the La Liga side, his recent form has dipped, with only one goal in his last five appearances.
Madrid, the reigning Champions League and La Liga champions, recently suffered a 4-0 loss to Barcelona and currently trail their rivals by nine points in the league standings.
Ancelotti acknowledged that Mbappe, like the rest of the squad, is feeling down but is determined to overcome this slump.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, he said: “Mbappe is down like everyone else, but motivated to get through this moment.
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“The problem he’s having is everyone’s problem. You could point at Vinicius [Junior], Rodrygo or [Jude] Bellingham. It is a difficult moment for everyone.”
The Real Madrid manager also mentioned that Mbappe is “training well” and believes that staying positive will help him regain his form.
He added: “We haven’t hit our stride yet. You can’t let your head drop; you have to hold it high.
Mbappe was also left out of the recent France squad, despite not being injured.
Addressing the recent decision by France manager Didier Deschamps to omit Mbappe from the upcoming Nations League matches, Ancelotti said: “I have no right to judge his decisions. He made the decision, and we have to accept it.”
