With Vinicius Junior sidelined due to injury, Real Madrid will rely on Kylian Mbappe to lead their attack in a crucial Champions League clash against Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday. The French superstar, who scored his first goal in five matches during Sunday’s La Liga win over Leganes, will be tasked with stepping up in Vinicius’ absence.
Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti deployed Mbappe on the left wing for the first time this season at Butarque, a move that paid off as the forward opened the scoring with an assist from Vinicius. However, the Brazilian’s three-week injury layoff puts extra pressure on Mbappe to deliver, especially with Madrid struggling in Europe.
The reigning Champions League holders sit a shocking 18th in the group table, trailing leaders Liverpool, following surprise defeats to Lille and AC Milan. Vinicius had scored four goals in the group stage before his injury, while Mbappe has managed just one.
“I’m starting to get up to speed with my teammates,” Mbappe told Real Madrid TV after Sunday’s win, adding, “I can play on the right, on the left, in the middle. I’m ready to help the team and score goals.”
Challenges Ahead for Ancelotti
Ancelotti faces significant tactical decisions ahead of the trip to Merseyside. Injuries have thinned Madrid’s squad, with Rodrygo, Lucas Vázquez, Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, and Eder Militao also unavailable. One option is pairing Mbappe with Jude Bellingham in a two-man strike force, with the England international stepping into a more advanced role.
Bellingham, who played a key attacking role last season following Karim Benzema’s departure, has been deployed deeper this season to accommodate Mbappe. However, with limited attacking options, Ancelotti may need to revisit that strategy.
“The team is improving bit by bit,” Ancelotti said, praising the chemistry between Mbappe and Vinicius before the latter’s injury. “They are both adapting, and we’ll continue to find the best solutions.”
Off-Pitch Pressures on Mbappe
Mbappe’s performances have been under intense scrutiny, with seven goals in 12 La Liga matches failing to meet the lofty expectations set by his superstar status. Additionally, off-field issues, including a Swedish rape investigation he called “fake news” and a legal battle with PSG over unpaid wages, have added to the pressure.
Ancelotti dismissed speculation about the forward’s mental state as “ugly,” insisting that Mbappe’s form would improve. A strong showing against Liverpool could provide the spark Madrid desperately needs to turn their European campaign around.
As the Spanish champions prepare for their Anfield showdown, all eyes will be on Mbappe to deliver the goals and leadership required to keep Madrid’s title defense alive.