Kylian Mbappé Responds to Defensive Criticism Ahead of Real Madrid's Champions League Match

Kylian Mbappé Addresses Defensive Work Concerns Before Champions League Start

Kylian Mbappé rejected criticism targeting his defensive efforts prior to Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League opener against Inter Milan. The French forward acknowledged the need for both himself and the team to improve defensively but dismissed the notion that he and Vinícius Júnior should be singled out.

Comparison with Dembélé and Raphinha Sparks Response

During the pre-match press conference, questions arose comparing Mbappé and Vinícius to forwards like Ousmane Dembélé and Raphinha, who have gained recognition for their work when not in possession. Mbappé challenged this comparison, emphasizing differences in player roles and strengths while insisting that defensive responsibilities fall on the entire squad.

Mbappé Questions Focus on Just Him and Vinícius

He expressed surprise over why only he and Vinícius were criticized for Real Madrid's defensive pressing.

"Only me and Vini?" Mbappé asked rhetorically.

He humorously highlighted his scoring achievements as a counterpoint.

"I can play the fool and tell you that I score more goals than the two you mentioned, and that they have to score more goals to be like me. Everyone is different."

Improvement Needed, But Not Through Comparisons

Mbappé admitted that defensive improvement is necessary, describing it as natural for each player to grow.

"Of course we have to improve, we have to improve," he said.

He prefers focusing on his own style rather than direct comparisons with other forwards.

"I want to do things intelligently and say that, of course, I have to improve and all that. But I don’t like to compare because I think I do many things that others don’t."

Team Effort Required for Defensive Progress

The forward broadened the topic beyond attackers, stating that every player at Real Madrid must contribute to better defense.

"But I agree that, of course, I and all the Real Madrid players have to improve in this aspect to help the defense and so that we can get fewer chances and fewer goals," he said.

This comment placed responsibility on the collective team rather than just the forwards.

Better Ball Control Could Ease Defensive Pressure

Mbappé also suggested that controlling possession more effectively would help the team both create scoring opportunities and reduce defensive stress.

"But I also think that we need to manage things better with the ball to create more scoring opportunities," he stated.

Continuous Improvement Part of High-Level Football

He described ongoing growth as part of competing at the highest level.

"That’s the life of a top-level team that wants to be the best in the world. There are many things you have to improve every day, and that’s just how it is."

Looking Ahead to Champions League Clash with Inter Milan

Real Madrid prepares to face Inter Milan in their group stage opener, with Mbappé remaining central to their attack. His comments underline his acceptance of needing to improve while stressing that defensive duties belong to the whole team.