Ancelotti: Mbappe's Adaptation Period is Over

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti says Kylian Mbappe's adaptation period is over, and the French forward is now proving himself at the club.

According to Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, self-criticism has been instrumental in helping the team navigate a difficult period, particularly in facilitating Kylian Mbappe's integration into the squad. Ancelotti's remarks came after Real Madrid's 4-2 victory over Sevilla on Sunday.

Mbappe played a pivotal role in the win, scoring the opening goal and providing an assist. The French forward's contributions helped Real Madrid secure second place in LaLiga, narrowing the gap with leaders Atletico Madrid to just one point ahead of the winter break.

In addition to Kylian Mbappe's goal, Federico Valverde, Rodrygo, and Brahim Diaz also found the back of the net for Real Madrid. However, it was Mbappe who spearheaded the team's effort, having now scored six goals in his last eight games. This victory propelled Real Madrid to 40 points, moving them two points clear of third-placed Barcelona.

Mbappe's recent form is a welcome turnaround, considering his initial struggles to adapt to life at Real Madrid following his summer transfer. The French forward experienced a dip in form and a brief spell on the sidelines, but he has since regained his footing and is now making significant contributions to the team's success.

Real Madrid, the reigning champions, faced a challenging start to the season, struggling to keep pace with their rivals. The low point came in October when they suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat at the hands of Barcelona. However, manager Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged that the team's lack of attitude and collective effort was the primary obstacle holding them back.

Through introspection, the team has been able to regain their rhythm. Although the disconnect was particularly evident in the Champions League, where the defending champions currently sit 20th with three wins and three losses, Ancelotti is optimistic about a turnaround. He revealed that a candid discussion in the dressing room after their defeat to AC Milan marked a turning point. “After the defeat against AC Milan, we sorted things out in the dressing room by talking very clearly,” Ancelotti said. This renewed sense of clarity has helped Real Madrid end the year on a positive note.

“Self-criticism has made us clear up what we were lacking, which was a bit of a lack of attitude, of collective commitment, of running a bit more.

“We have gone back to doing things the way we should have done them... Mbappe has been self-critical and that's why he has gotten out of a situation that could have been complicated.”

Prior to the match, Carlo Ancelotti expressed his confidence in Kylian Mbappe's ability to live up to Real Madrid's lofty expectations. Ancelotti's faith in Mbappe has been vindicated, and the manager acknowledged this, stating, “His adaptation period is over and today he has shown that I, from time to time, am right.”

ncelotti also reflected on Real Madrid's performance in 2024, assigning the team an “A+” grade. He noted that while the current season began with difficulties, the team was able to rectify the situation in time, fostering optimism for 2025. However, Ancelotti tempered expectations, acknowledging the challenge of replicating their success. “In 2024 I give the team an A+,” he said. “Last season was fantastic. We started (this season) with more difficulty, but we were able to fix the situation in time and there is hope for 2025, but it is difficult to repeat it. We will try.”