A Difficult Start at the Bernabéu

The arrival of Kylian Mbappé at Real Madrid sparked both massive excitement and controversy. His first season in the Spanish capital produced spectacular numbers: 31 goals in LaLiga and 42 in all competitions, earning him the Pichichi and the European Golden Boot. Yet those stats didn’t silence the criticism.

Under Carlo Ancelotti, the forward struggled to fit into a team that had just won both the Champions League and LaLiga. He scored goals, but he didn’t contribute to the collective play. He didn’t press, often drifted into Vinícius Jr.’s spaces, and at times looked like he was playing a different game from the rest. Despite his goals, Madrid ended the season without trophies, exited the Champions League, and finished second in the league. The failure ultimately cost Ancelotti his job.

Xabi Alonso and a New Role

The arrival of Xabi Alonso completely changed the outlook. From day one, the manager made Mbappé the centerpiece of his project — but on one condition: he had to adapt to the system, sacrifice for the team, and accept that his role would not always be the same.

Alonso has deployed him as a traditional striker, a second forward, and even as a playmaker. “Kylian understands football very well,” Alonso explained after using him in a deeper role. That flexibility, combined with mutual trust between the two, has transformed the Frenchman into a more complete player, capable not only of scoring but also of contributing to the collective.

Ballon d’Or Numbers

The shift is reflected in the stats. Mbappé has 7 goals in 6 matches, has created 18 chances, and leads the league in goals, shots, and expected goals. Even more surprising: he has recovered 10 balls in the final third, placing him among the elite in defensive contributions as well.

No longer the one-dimensional forward of last season, Mbappé is evolving into a total player. His understanding with Alonso and his ability to adapt to different demands now place him firmly among the frontrunners for the Ballon d’Or.

From Problem to Key Player

What seemed like a question mark a year ago is now a certainty. Mbappé is no longer a problem for Madrid — he is their biggest asset. Under Alonso’s guidance, the Frenchman has shed the shadow of failure and become the indispensable figure of a team once again dreaming of European domination.