Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid, has reaffirmed that his team has to improve their defense instead of concentrating too much on the front-row partnership between Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe. The Frenchman is under more and more criticism after just scoring once in his last 22 shots.

Given that both Mbappe and Vinicius like to play on the left, the long-standing argument about whether they can coexist has been reignited in recent weeks as Los Blancos appear to be struggling. Before their game against Osasuna, Ancelotti was questioned about why Vinicius wasn’t playing a more key role.

“Because Mbappe can play forward and I didn’t want to take him (Vinicius) away from where he makes the difference.” Nothing more. Ours is a defensive issue rather than an offensive one.

The Italian clarified that Ancelotti had previously acknowledged that Mbappe and the rest of the team were “sunk” by their previous two performances. He did, however, exhibit complete optimism that Mbappe’s situation will improve.

He is training well and, like all of us, is going through a tough moment. Like everyone else, you have to see this as an opportunity that, with more focus and attitude, you can rapidly turn around if you’re clever. This is the proper way to handle issues. His inability to present his best self is a problem that affects everyone. However, you need to see this as a chance to improve going forward. I have no doubt that he will make things better.

“And like him, Bellingham, Rodrygo, Vinicius, me! It is clear that everyone is going through a tough moment. However, experiencing something similar is not uncommon; in a sport where losing is also a possibility, it is typical. We broke the habit for a long period, but now that it has happened, we accept it and can’t reduce our effort. It’s higher than before. Because this is the world’s most challenging club and a strong, driven group. The greatest location to get through tough times is here. And I have no doubt that we will.

Several rumors have surfaced this week asserting that Mbappe is dissatisfied with his role under Ancelotti and the way he is being asked to play, despite Ancelotti’s assurance. The France captain believes that Los Blancos are not set up to bring out the best in him, and if that is the case, it is becoming increasingly clear that he is frustrated.