Kylian Mbappé’s arrival at Real Madrid promised a sparkling partnership with Vinicius Jr, but behind the apparent smiles, a rivalry seems to be brewing over the role of penalty-taker. A situation that is testing the fragile balance of Carlo Ancelotti’s team.
Used to playing on the left wing, Kylian Mbappé has been forced to adapt to the centre-forward position, leaving Vinicius in his preferred role. In addition, the Bondynois has agreed not to be the main penalty taker, an unusual concession for a player of his standing. However, according to Planeta Real Madrid, the Frenchman recently asked to become the first choice to take penalties. Naturally, this unexpected request has provoked possible internal friction.
The request comes after the recent international break, when Vinicius Jr was criticised for his lacklustre performances for Brazil, particularly in the match against Venezuela. However, the Brazilian has been irreproachable in this area for Real Madrid, and has not missed a single penalty this season.
Mbappé vs Vinicius Jr, Roberto Gómez reignites the debate
On the ElDesmarque Madrugada programme, journalist Roberto Gómez openly argued that Kylian Mbappé should take charge of penalties. It is a divisive position, yet Carlo Ancelotti continues to show his confidence in Vinicius Jr. The Italian coach, renowned for his ability to manage stars, is now faced with the complex challenge of maintaining the cohesion of a team where egos are beginning to clash.
If Mbappé’s ambitions are confirmed, they could fuel a rivalry with Vinicius, considered the face of Real Madrid for the past two seasons. The Brazilian is a central component of the Merengues’ sporting project. But Kylian Mbappé, who has just arrived, has yet to prove himself, despite his status as a world star. For the time being, the club is keeping quiet, leaving it to Ancelotti to calm any tensions. Despite the two players currently alternating penalties, Mbappé’s personal ambitions could complicate this strategy.
If Mbappé and Vinicius Jr can work together, Real Madrid will have a world-class attack capable of dominating Europe. But the slightest disagreement could weaken the collective harmony and impact on performances on the pitch. We have already seen the beginnings of tension during the match against Osasuna, where Vinicius distinguished himself with a hat-trick.
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