La Liga: Mbappé attributes Real Madrid’s comeback to a mindset shift
Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappé revealed on Tuesday that a change in mindset has been key to turning around his form after a challenging start to life in Madrid following his high-profile transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.
The French superstar struggled for consistency in his initial months with the Spanish giants after his dream move last summer. However, recent performances have shown him back to his electrifying best.
“You always have to stay calm and focus on your game and what you can improve,” Mbappé said during a press conference ahead of Madrid’s Champions League clash with RB Salzburg on Wednesday.
“I knew I could turn the situation around, and now the situation has changed.”
Mbappé faced criticism after missing penalties against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao towards the end of 2024, moments he described as hitting “rock bottom.”
Determined to bounce back, the 26-year-old vowed to show his character and rise above his struggles. Since then, he has netted eight goals in his last 10 appearances across all competitions.
“It was more of a mental battle,” Mbappé explained. “Physically, I felt good, and I was connecting well with the team. But I knew I had to step up. I didn’t come to Madrid to underperform.
“That was the moment I decided to change everything. Now things are different, but I need to maintain this level. Playing well for a month is good, but consistency is what really matters.”
During his challenging spell, compounded by a thigh injury, Mbappé was omitted from several France squads for Nations League fixtures in late 2024.
Despite this, Mbappé expressed his eagerness to rejoin the national team, emphasizing his commitment to representing France.
“There’s no issue with the national team,” he said. “I understand the criticism in France, but my passion for the national team remains the same.
“I’m looking forward to returning in March to help us reach the Nations League semi-finals. My love for the national team hasn’t wavered.”
Mbappé, who lifted the World Cup with France in 2018, now aims to build on his recent resurgence and lead both club and country to greater success.
