Is Mbappé the only problem? The main reasons behind Real Madrid's struggles

Real Madrid is in crisis. While early season games against Mallorca (1-1) and Las Palmas (1-1) raised subtle concerns, recent performances make the issue undeniable. Even the 4-0 win over Osasuna cannot overshadow home losses to Barcelona (0-4) and AC Milan (1-3).

So what has happened to Real Madrid? Dailysports highlights the main reasons for such a poor start.

CONTENT

• A Failed Summer Transfer Strategy
• Lack of Trust in Youth
• The Absence of Toni Kroos
• Is There Even a Right Flank and Central Core?
• Mbappé’s Underwhelming Impact So Far

A Failed Summer Transfer Strategy

For the first time in years, Florentino Pérez seems to have miscalculated. All summer, Real Madrid pursued Leny Yoro as a replacement after Nacho’s departure left them short of a center-back. However, Yoro opted for Manchester United, leaving Real with only two healthy central defenders: Antonio Rüdiger and Éder Militão. With David Alaba still sidelined indefinitely, this left the team shorthanded.

In the recent match against Osasuna, Carlo Ancelotti had to field 21-year-old debutant Raúl Asensio, who impressed with an assist to Jude Bellingham. However, doubts remain about whether he can reliably fill this role until the transfer window opens. Jesús Vallejo remains another option, but his single appearance this season saw Real concede two goals to Alavés after leading 3-0, making further opportunities unlikely.

There’s also a clear gap in right-back options. While Lucas Vázquez has become a club legend, he’s not a natural defender, and more capable opponents like Raphinha and Rafael Leão have taken advantage. Now, with Vázquez injured, Fede Valverde has been covering as right-back.

• Read also: "My role has changed." Jude Bellingham commented on his first goal of the new season.

Lack of Trust in Youth – Especially Homegrown Talent

Rising stars Arda Güler and Endrick have proven their potential both at club and national levels. However, limited opportunities are stifling their growth. Across four critical matches—against Celta, Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona, and AC Milan—the two combined for just one minute of playing time. They warmed up on the sidelines, yet didn’t see action even in the final 10-15 minutes. Such a situation risks demotivating young players.

The situation is even bleaker for the club's academy graduates. The last players to break through from La Fábrica are Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez, both now over 30. Ancelotti even prefers to slot Aurélien Tchouaméni as a center-back over giving academy players a chance.

The Absence of Toni Kroos

The importance of Toni Kroos to Real Madrid’s system has only become fully evident in his absence. Despite a crowded midfield lineup, none can replicate Kroos's role, especially in set-piece situations. This season, Real Madrid has scored only once from a free-kick and managed just a single goal from a corner in the Champions League against Stuttgart. Kroos’s absence has clearly left a gap in the team's playmaking and scoring from set pieces.

Is There Even a Right Flank and Central Core?

With players like Vinícius, Mbappé, and Rodrygo preferring to operate on the left, Real Madrid’s attacks are notably lopsided: 43% on the left, 34% on the right, and only 23% through the center. Opponents can easily counter this by crowding their own right side of the field, further unbalancing Real’s attack.

This imbalance reinforces the summer transfer failings, resulting in a team with significant structural issues.

An Alarming Number of Injuries

Another consequence of Ancelotti’s reluctance to rotate players is a worrying injury count. Real Madrid players have already sustained 24 injuries this season, including two ACL tears. Key players are struggling to handle the intense physical demands, yet the coaching staff remains resistant to rotation.

Beyond just the rigorous schedule, questions arise over Real’s physical preparation methods, as injuries were also a significant issue last season.

Mbappé’s Underwhelming Impact – Hindering Bellingham

The most glaring issue, however, may be Kylian Mbappé. Despite years of pursuing the French superstar, Real Madrid’s marquee signing has so far fallen flat.

Since joining Real Madrid, Mbappé has:

1. Sued PSG
2. Been involved in a scandal during an international break
3. Found himself offside eight times in a single match against Barcelona
4. Fallen out with Didier Deschamps and missed two consecutive call-ups for the French national team
5. Scored only one goal in his last seven games

The recent game against Milan highlighted these struggles. Jude Bellingham covered more ground and made more runs behind defenders, yet the team continued trying to play through Mbappé.

Moreover, Mbappé’s lack of defensive contribution stands out. He doesn’t press or track back, leaving the team vulnerable. While Cristiano Ronaldo once played a similar role, his goal-scoring offset his defensive limitations. For Mbappé, this approach isn’t yielding the same results.

Reports in the Spanish media suggest Mbappé isn’t happy with his role as a central striker and prefers a left-wing position. Karim Benzema previously pointed out that Mbappé is more suited to playing on the left. However, Vinícius Junior has firmly established himself on the left, arguably outperforming Mbappé.

Can Real Madrid Overcome These Issues? Whether Real Madrid can address these challenges and emerge from this slump will be tested in their upcoming Champions League fixtures against Liverpool and Atalanta—both teams currently in top form.