Kylian Mbappé’s challenges at Real Madrid were once again evident on Wednesday night during their Champions League clash against Liverpool.
The 25-year-old forward missed a crucial penalty that could have drawn his team level and potentially altered the game’s outcome. With Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior absent, much of the attacking burden fell on Mbappé, but he struggled to make an impact, prompting widespread criticism for his performance on one of football’s biggest stages.
Jude Bellingham, his teammate, expressed support for the Frenchman in a post-match interview. Speaking to TNT Sports, Bellingham acknowledged the pressure Mbappé faces due to his immense talent. He remarked, “It’s [Mbappé’s penalty] a big moment in the game but it can happen.
He’s a wonderful player, but the pressure that he holds because of how good he is, is huge. The penalty is not the reason why we lost the game.
As a collective, we weren’t good enough on the night. They performed better than us, and it’s as simple as that. Kylian can keep his head high. I know for sure that he will produce many more moments that are huge for this club.”
Adjusting to a new club is often a challenge for top players, and Mbappé’s situation is no different. Moving from Paris Saint-Germain, where he was the focal point of the team, to Real Madrid—a club brimming with star talent and lofty expectations—has placed him under intense scrutiny.
At PSG, Mbappé was the undisputed star of Ligue 1, but at Madrid, he must find his place in a squad filled with superstars and fans who expect excellence at every turn. The weight of those expectations rivals the era of Cristiano Ronaldo at the club.
Despite the recent criticism, Mbappé’s form in La Liga this season has been respectable. He has scored seven goals in the league, showcasing his potential to deliver consistently once he settles into his role under Carlo Ancelotti.
Many believe that with time, the World Cup winner will overcome these early struggles and regain his dominant form. His talent and resilience suggest that he will soon produce the kind of performances that made him one of the most coveted players in world football.
Real Madrid, currently four points behind Barcelona in the standings, have a game in hand and will look to narrow the gap when they face Getafe on Sunday. Mbappé will undoubtedly be aiming to bounce back and help his team secure a vital victory as they push for the top spot in La Liga.
