Kylian Mbappé’s journey from a meteoric rise to recent underperformance has baffled many.
A once-promising career now seems in jeopardy as the French forward struggles to match past glories. Here are five reasons that might explain his downturn.
Read more:
- Kylian Mbappé embraces humility at Real Madrid: A new chapter begins
- Mbappé: he’ll succeed, and we’ll tell you how
Physical Changes Diminish Speed
Michel Platini had warned early on that Mbappé’s exceptional speed would eventually decline with age. The forward’s decision to bulk up has ironically sped up this decline, reducing his once-signature explosiveness and agility. This physical transformation has rendered his quick first steps less effective, noticeably impacting his game against seasoned defenders.
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A Misguided Technical Aspiration
Inspired perhaps by the likes of Neymar and Messi, Mbappé has attempted to transform his playing style to emulate these technical maestros. However, this shift away from his natural strengths has led to a mismatch between his capabilities and his game approach. Attempts to excel in free-kicks and playmaking, areas where he lacks natural proficiency, have not only failed but also detracted from his core competencies.
Loss of Focus on soccer
Mbappé’s myriad off-field engagements, from marketing endeavors to high-profile discussions on team policy and even national politics, suggest a diversion of focus from soccer. This dilution of focus is evident in his on-field performances, which have lacked the sharpness and commitment seen in earlier years. His involvement in every aspect of his brand and public persona might be overshadowing his commitment to the sport.
⚪️✨ Cristiano Ronaldo: “Kylian Mbappé can win Ballon d’Or for the next few years! Also probably Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham”.
Rio Ferdinand: “Vinicius”. 🇧🇷
Cristiano Ronaldo: “Also Lamine Yamal”. 🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/I1EODZ93kN
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 10, 2024
Misalignment with Playing Position
Traditionally excelling as a winger, Mbappé’s current role as a central striker does not play to his strengths. His inability to effectively play with his back to the goal, combined with a lack of defensive contribution, suggests a misfit in this position. His coaches, in trying to adapt the team’s strategy to his speed, may have inadvertently placed him in a role that limits his effectiveness.
Leadership and Team Dynamics
Despite his aspirations to be a leader, Mbappé’s approach has sometimes alienated teammates and fans alike. His tenure as captain has not been marked by the unity and morale boost typically expected from such a leadership role. Public remarks that have come off as dismissive or self-centered have not helped in fostering team spirit or endearing him to the soccer community.
These factors collectively sketch the portrait of a player who, despite immense talent, has perhaps lost his way amidst the pressures and expectations of top-tier soccer. For Mbappé to return to his best, a recalibration of his physical training, a re-focus on core soccer skills, and perhaps a more humble team-centric approach are essential. Only time will tell if this once prodigious talent can adjust his trajectory and fulfill the potential that once seemed boundless.
