Real Madrid faces a critical Champions League clash at Liverpool with star winger Vinícius Júnior sidelined for three weeks. The spotlight now turns to Kylian Mbappé, who is expected to lead the attack. After a sluggish start to his Real Madrid tenure, Mbappé broke his five-game goal drought in La Liga with a crucial strike against Leganés. Positioned in his preferred left-wing role for the first time by Carlo Ancelotti, Mbappé showed flashes of brilliance, but his consistency remains under scrutiny, especially with just one Champions League goal compared to Vinícius’ four.
Key Challenges and Tactical Adjustments
| Player | La Liga Goals (2023) | Champions League Goals | Injuries Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kylian Mbappé | 7 in 12 matches | 1 | Takes over attack in Vinícius’ absence |
| Vinícius Júnior | 4 | 4 | Out for 3 weeks with injury |
Real Madrid’s depleted squad, missing key players like Rodrygo, Lucas Vázquez, and defensive stalwarts, faces tactical dilemmas. Ancelotti may deploy Mbappé alongside Jude Bellingham in a two-man attack. Bellingham, who excelled in a forward role last season, has recently been positioned deeper. Mbappé’s versatility—operating centrally or on the wings—offers flexibility but also raises questions about maximizing his impact.
Pressure on Mbappé
Off the pitch, Mbappé deals with legal disputes and external criticism. Ancelotti remains confident in his mental resilience, labeling speculation about his form “ugly.” A strong performance at Anfield could solidify his stature as Madrid’s talisman and relieve mounting pressure. With Madrid trailing in their Champions League group, Mbappé’s response could define their European campaign.
