Kylian Mbappe is on his way to Real Madrid, where his role has already been determined – and the French superstar has also accepted the role.
While securing Kylian Mbappe has always been a high priority for Real Madrid, there has been frequent discussion about how he would integrate into the team or how the team would adjust to accommodate him.
This poses a beneficial dilemma for Carlo Ancelotti, albeit one that could potentially create complications – though it seems it won’t.
Recent reports from the Spanish capital indicate that Mbappe’s role for the next season has been firmly established. At Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappe has expressed a preference for playing on the left side of the attack, which offers him more space and better opportunities to face the goal.
This position is most commonly occupied by Vinicius Junior, and is also the preferred spot for Rodrygo Goes. However, according to Diario AS, Mbappe has agreed to play as a central striker, or number nine, next season. This decision is partly driven by his ambition to win the Ballon d’Or.
It remains unclear whether this strategic shift was proposed to him or if it was his own decision, but playing as a striker is regarded as the optimal position to accumulate goals and strengthen his Ballon d’Or credentials.
In a lineup that includes Vinicius, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, and Brahim Diaz, playing closest to the goal will likely result in numerous scoring opportunities. With an impressive tally of 41 goals in 43 games this season, the prospect of Mbappe increasing his goal count next season is a daunting thought for La Liga defenses.
Before their Copa del Rey victory over Barcelona last season, it seemed Ancelotti’s position was uncertain, but he might just be the ideal manager to bring Mbappe into the fold.
Known for his adeptness at handling star personalities, Mbappe will join a locker room that largely supports Ancelotti and one that has so far been resistant to overly dominant egos.
