With Vinicius Junior sidelined for several weeks due to injury, Kylian Mbappe is poised to lead Real Madrid’s attack in their Champions League match against Liverpool on Wednesday. The French forward, who has faced a challenging start in Madrid, is eager to rise to the occasion after netting his first goal in five games during a La Liga victory over Leganes.
Mbappe, playing on his preferred left wing for the first time under coach Carlo Ancelotti, opened the scoring in the 3-1 win at Butarque, thanks to a brilliant assist from Vinicius. Now, with the Brazilian absent, Mbappe will take on the responsibility of spearheading Madrid’s offensive line, starting at Anfield.
Liverpool currently top the Champions League group, while Madrid find themselves in an unexpected 18th position after losses to Lille and AC Milan. Despite a solid La Liga tally of seven goals in 12 appearances, Mbappe’s performances in Europe have been less impressive, with only one goal to his name.
The forward believes he’s slowly adapting to his new team. “I’m getting up to speed with my teammates, and I’m ready to play anywhere to help the team,” Mbappe said after the Leganes win, where Madrid climbed to second in the league.
Madrid coach Ancelotti has been cautious in deploying Mbappe on the left, preferring Vinicius in that role. However, with Mbappe struggling as a central striker, the change paid off, as he scored his first goal in seven matches. Ancelotti noted that Mbappe’s freshness after international duty was key to his performance.
For the upcoming match, Ancelotti may opt for a two-striker setup, pairing Mbappe with Jude Bellingham, who has operated more withdrawn this season. However, Madrid’s injury woes, including absences from key players like Vinicius, Rodrygo, and several defenders, have left the squad thin.
Despite off-field controversies, including a rape investigation and ongoing disputes with former club PSG, Mbappe remains under pressure. However, his goal against Leganes has lightened the burden, and Madrid will be looking for more from him as they face Liverpool.
NEWS SOUIRCES:,
ARY NEWS, GEO NEWS, CNN
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