Kylian Mbappe and Real Madrid – A saga that will only end after the Frenchman finally dons the white jersey. There have been reports about Mbappe wanting to sign for Madrid for years. He was even confirmed to do so in 2022 before abruptly announcing he was staying at Paris Saint-Germain. Many high-profile entities were said to be involved in Mbappe’s supposed betrayal of Los Blancos.
However, he has confirmed his departure from Paris in 2024. Madrid is his likeliest destination. Even after the 2022 debacle, the Madrid faithful are ready to welcome Mbappe with open arms. But, would his arrival cause a problem for the club? Seemingly.
Kylian Mbappé’s arrival at Real Madrid will cause problems for Vinicius Junior. Kylian’s idea is to play as a left winger. He can even play at right wing, which might threaten Rodrygo’s position as well. Both players have however welcomed the idea of Mbappé joining the club.
— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) October 14, 2023
Mbappe’s preferred position is the left wing. He is arguably at his best running down the wing and taking on defenders. He is a specialist at making runs inward toward the goal from the left wing. But Madrid already possesses someone who does the same thing. And Madrid’s starman Vinicius Jr. does that job magnificently as well.
🚨🥇| Kylian Mbappe does NOT want to play right wing, he even made this clear to Pochettino. @JorgeCPicon
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) March 11, 2022
The Brazilian youngster has become a fan-favorite at Madrid. The arrival of Mbappe cannot mean the departure of Vinicius nor can it mean the Brazilian would play second-fiddle to the Frenchman. Neither of them will want to play at right-wing because they are both right-footed players and the modern game doesn’t permit you to play on the wing of your preferred foot. So, what does Carlo Ancelotti do?
Kylian Mbappe playing through the middle is probably the only way to solve this problem
Mbappe has mostly been used as a left-winger at PSG and France. He has played through the middle on multiple occasions as well. But his highest output is seen as a left-winger.
Undoubtedly, Mbappe’s finishing qualities could see him fit well in the central spot. Former PSG manager Thomas Tuchel even stated that Mbappe plays his best soccer from the middle. However, as all the fast, skillful, and best players have played throughout the past years, Mbappe will enjoy his soccer more on the wings.
Vinicius has been extraordinary on the left wing for Madrid. Winning trophies, scoring goals, and assisting goals have been normal for the Brazilian. It won’t be the best choice to remove him from his best spot and make him play elsewhere for Mbappe. But, the situation is similar for Mbappe as well. Something will have to give. Seemingly, it will be Mbappe’s position.
🚨 Introducing our newest superstar, Karim @Benzema! Ready to light up our stadium soon ⚽️💥 #Benzema2Ittihad#here2inspireKSA pic.twitter.com/XSQcyRghpO
— Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) June 6, 2023
Joselu has been doing well in Madrid colors but Mbappe will take up the place that was celebrated by another Frenchman. Karim Benzema left Madrid in the summer and Mbappe would be a fitting replacement when it comes to the stature of the player, not very sure position-wise.
When it comes to defensive cover, the Los Blancos are well-equipped to take care of the defensive duties even without the hearty contributions of their forwards. Rest assured, Mbappe will definitely succeed at Madrid. However, it will be seen if he enjoys his soccer from a position that is not his preferred one. And, if he does want to shift to the wing, does Vinicius sacrifice his hard-earned spot for the Frenchman?
Two young players vying for the best player status might just see some infighting as well. It will be interesting to see how Mbappe fits in this Madrid squad if the transfer does take place.