Real Madrid Overlooked Key Warning Signs Before Signing Kylian Mbappé on a Free Transfer

Real Madrid Overlooked Key Warning Signs Before Signing Kylian Mbappé on a Free Transfer

  • Spanish giants Real Madrid were made aware of the issue surrounding Kylian Mbappe but decided to sign him anyway
  • The French superstar failed to make an impact from his favoured left-wing position and missed a critical penalty in Real Madrid’s 2-0 defeat at Anfield
  • Four months into the 2024/25 season, the World Cup winner has yet to reach his peak form for Los Blancos

Real Madrid’s signing of Kylian Mbappé on a free transfer this summer was hailed as a major triumph.

However, reports indicate the club overlooked critical concerns about the French star’s declining physical output before finalising the deal.

After years of speculation, the 25-year-old joined Los Blancos following the expiration of his Paris Saint-Germain contract.

Real Madrid Overlooked Key Warning Signs Before Signing Kylian Mbappé on a Free Transfer
Real Madrid were made aware of the issue surrounding Kylian Mbappe but decided to sign him anyway. Photo: James Gardener.
Source: Getty Images

Despite taking a substantial pay cut, Mbappe remains Real’s highest earner and received a staggering £128 million signing bonus.

However, his start in Madrid has fallen short of expectations. Wearing the iconic No. 9 shirt, Mbappé has scored nine goals in 18 games but has struggled to find his rhythm.

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His presence seems to have disrupted the team’s balance, with Real trailing Barcelona in La Liga and languishing in 24th place in the Champions League table.

Mbappé’s form has been inconsistent, highlighted by his penalty miss against Liverpool, where he was neutralised by right-back Conor Bradley.

A recent report offers insight into his struggles. According to The Daily Mail, Mbappé has covered just 39 kilometres across five Champions League matches, significantly less than his teammates.

Why Real Madrid gambled on Mbappé

Further analysis by Relevo revealed that Real Madrid were aware of a gradual decline in Mbappé’s physical output, including reduced high-intensity efforts and sprint speed, dating back to his 2018 World Cup triumph.

Despite these concerns, the 15-time European champions felt compelled to sign the former Monaco star, viewing him as an opportunity they couldn’t afford to miss.

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Real Madrid Seek Zidane’s Guidance to Revive Mbappe’s Form

Now, questions loom over whether they underestimated the impact of these warning signs on his performance.

Real Madrid boss backs Mbappe to shine

Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Mbappe has received backing from Carlo Ancelotti.

The Madrid boss, renowned for nurturing world-class talent, has expressed strong belief in his latest 'Galactico,' asserting that Mbappe is set to captivate the Bernabeu faithful with a stellar performance.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Isaac Darko avatar

Isaac Darko (Sports Editor) Isaac Darko is a Sports Editor at Yen, boasting over 10 years of experience in the media industry. He has produced award-winning TV shows such as "Football 360" and "Sports XTRA" on ViaSat 1/Kwese TV. Isaac began his career as an Assistant Producer at TV3 Ghana Limited (Media General) and also contributed as a Writer and Weekend Editor for Pulse Ghana. He earned his bachelor's degree in Communication Studies from the Ghana Institute of Journalism (now University of Media, Arts and Communication). Email: isaac.darko@sportsbrief.com.