Real Madrid: Mbappé–Vinicius, a problem revealed

10.10.26 FT LaLiga Spain

Real Madrid

1

:

Villarreal

0

At Real Madrid, the Kylian Mbappé–Vinicius Jr duo has struggled to inspire confidence since the start of José Mourinho's tenure. In recent hours, a revelation has even emerged.

According to information from The Athletic, managing Mbappé and Vinicius represents José Mourinho's main challenge at Real Madrid. Despite their good relationship off the pitch, the two forwards are still struggling to find an effective partnership, particularly because they both prefer playing on the left.

Mourinho's problem with the two stars

Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr's limited defensive efforts are the Special One's biggest problems. Their lack of effort also makes the Portuguese coach's task more difficult as he seeks to rebalance his team without restricting his two stars.

"There is a footballing and ego problem, but above all a footballing one," a source close to Real Madrid said. A former member of the staff was much more categorical. "The problem will not be solved until either Vinicius or Mbappé leaves the club," he insisted. However, Mourinho does not appear to be considering that possibility.

Also read: Bayern: president confident about Harry Kane's contract extension

Mourinho still believes

While nothing is reassuring, José Mourinho remains convinced of the importance of his two forwards. The former Chelsea coach is working in particular on their attacking positioning and on a defensive setup that is less demanding of them. But the right formula still needs to be found, after the successive failures of his predecessors.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

Related teams and leagues

Real Madrid

Villarreal

LaLiga Spain