Real Madrid’s star addition this summer has been nothing if not underwhelming so far, but Kylian Mbappe is taking steps to address that. After a second penalty miss in eight days against Athletic Club cost them two points, the French forward held talks with some of the dressing room heavyweights.
According to Diario AS, Mbappe spoke individually to some of the leaders in the dressing room after defeat to Athletic, where he admitted that he had not been at his best, and in line with the public message that he sent on social media, said he would show who he is. He made it clear that he would react, and wanted to be the leader of the Real Madrid project.
It’s a shift that has been well-received by the hierarchy at Real Madrid, who feel this is the Mbappe they were expecting in the summer. The dressing room too are also content, and are waiting to follow his lead – they have been given a boost by his change of attitude.
More than just his play or finishing, perhaps the most pointed accusation against Mbappe from the local press has been his lack of personality, appearing aloof on the pitch and lacking in spark. If that can change, it could be a turning point for Los Blancos, although clearly that needs to translate into performances too – his off the ball work will be a sure sign of whether a change has occurred.