After Real Madrid’s most recent loss, a 2-1 loss to Athletic Bilbao, Kylian Mbappé has spoken candidly about his difficult start at the club and taken “full responsibility” for his lackluster play.
The reigning LaLiga and Champions League champions find themselves further behind in the title race after the loss, with Mbappé struggling once again, particularly in front of goal.
When Carlo Ancelotti moved Vinícius Jr. to the left wing, the Frenchman struggled to make an impression since Bilbao’s defense kept him quiet. Bilbao’s goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala easily saved his attempt, adding to his troubles with a failed penalty, his second in a week.
To make matters worse, Mbappé wasted yet another fantastic chance after Jude Bellingham set him up, but the keeper easily gathered his feeble shot.
After the game, Mbappé addressed his struggles in an Instagram post to his 122 million followers, writing: “Bad result. A big mistake in a match where every detail counts. I take full responsibility. It’s a difficult time, but the best time to turn things around and show who I truly am.”
Real Madrid continues to back him despite his difficult start because they believe the French player will make their large investment worthwhile. Although his arrival has required tactical changes, such as shifting Jude Bellingham into a deeper midfield area, Ancelotti is convinced Mbappé can return to his elite form.
Federico Valverde, a fellow midfielder, also expressed regret for his costly mistake that allowed Bilbao to score their second goal. “I take the blame and apologize to my teammates and the fans,” Valverde said, adding that he was determined to recover in the upcoming games. “It was a hard blow.”