Kylian Mbappe joined the Bernabeu this summer with the expectation that he would help Real Madrid consolidate their dominance. However, his appearance is creating a negative effect on the whole team, especially Vinicius and Jude Bellingham.
Vinicius has generally been brilliant this season, albeit not as often. The Brazilian striker scored from the penalty spot to help Los Blancos draw 1-1 against AC Milan.
However, Bellingham’s season so far has been a mixed bag. In terms of play, the England international’s contributions on the pitch have been nothing short of stellar. As of 5 November 2023, Bellingham has scored 13 goals for Real Madrid in his first season at the Bernabeu. However, Bellingham has yet to score a goal this campaign.
Coach Ancelotti seems unsure what to do with Bellingham. Should he return Bellingham to the left midfield position he played in for most of last season or continue to use him on the right wing? Bellingham's last goal for the royal team was some 179 days ago.
Real Madrid's defence, one of their strengths last season, has become shaky. They have conceded 10 goals in their last four games. Against AC Milan, Andriy Lunin's goal was constantly under threat, with both defence and midfield to blame.
Alvaro Morata scored again against Real Madrid, his seventh goal against his former club. The Spaniard is a hard-working, deep-lying striker who is an all-rounder. This is the type of striker that Mbappe has not adapted to or does not want to adapt to.
Things could have been worse for Los Blancos if goalkeeper Lunin had not continued to shine. They will have to wait another month to return to the Champions League, facing Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Before that, Ancelotti's team will have an international break and matches against Osasuna and Leganes in La Liga. Can "White Vultures" return or will they continue to sink deeper into crisis? It would not be surprising if Anfield is the place to decide Ancelotti's future next month.
"For me, that's normal because when the team doesn't perform at its best, it's my responsibility. More importantly, the whole team must have a sense of responsibility for the team.
We have to accept the criticism, we have to accept that the team did not play well. The team will have to fix things and defend better because that is the key factor. I will have to think of solutions to have a more balanced squad and play more solidly. Sometimes a few small changes can change everything" - Ancelotti said after the loss to Milan.
