Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe revealed that a change in mentality helped him overcome early struggles following his high-profile move from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
The French superstar initially struggled with form after joining Real Madrid last summer but has recently returned to his best. Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League match against RB Salzburg, Mbappe explained how he turned things around.
“You always have to be calm and focus on your game and what you can improve,” Mbappe said.
“I knew that I could change the situation, and now the situation has changed.”
The 26-year-old endured a tough spell late in 2024, missing crucial penalties against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao, and admitted he had “hit the bottom” during that period. Determined to prove himself, Mbappe has since scored eight goals in his last 10 matches across all competitions.
“It was more of a mental thing,” Mbappé added. “I knew I was good physically, good with the team, the group, but I had to do more, and I knew it. It was the moment to say, ‘I didn’t come to Madrid to play badly.’ Now it’s all changed, but I have to continue. Playing well for a month is good, but it’s easy.”
Mbappe’s poor form and a thigh injury had also led to his exclusion from several France squads for Nations League fixtures late last year. Despite this, the striker emphasised his eagerness to represent his country again.
“There’s no issue with the national team, I can understand the criticism in France,” said Mbappé, who won the World Cup with Les Bleus in 2018.
“I’m excited to return in March and try to reach the Nations League semi-finals. My love for the national team has not changed.”
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