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Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has claimed Kylian Mbappe used the international break to become “a different player” compared to the one who struggled across his first few months in Spain.
As a wider entity, Madrid have underwhelmed so far this year, with Mbappe’s performances contributing to that malaise. While he does have seven goals in 11 games, three of those have come from the penalty spot, with many questioning whether Mbappe’s introduction has actually had a positive impact on the team.
Ahead of Madrid‘s return to action against Celta Vigo on Saturday, Ancelotti insisted fitness issues were behind Mbappe’s slow start and fans are set to see a different side to him going forwards.
“He has taken advantage of the break to improve his condition,” Ancelotti said. “He is very well, happy and eager to return tomorrow and be important for the team. These 15 days have helped him a lot, because he has had time to overcome his injuries. Kylian Mbappe is a different player to the one he was before the break.
“At a tactical level his position does not change from how he has played in recent games. His left wing position may vary with Vinicius, but we have been focused on physical work. This break has been good for him and he looks very good to me.”
Mbappe did not meet up with the France squad for the latest international break over fitness concerns. Instead, he was criticised for a trip to a Swedish nightclub, where local media have linked him with an investigation into an alleged sexual assault. Both Mbappe and his lawyers have firmly denied having anything to do with the accusations.
“I’m not here to comment on speculation, I pay no attention to what is said on the outside,” Ancelotti said of the speculation. “I focus on the work he does.
“I talk to the players every day. I can’t comment on what I have said before, which at this point is speculation. I don’t see him affected at all, with great enthusiasm to contribute to the team. He’s close to 100%. It’s very nice. It’s a pleasure to watch him train.”