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Real Madrid find themselves in a precarious position after a series of incidents have raised alarms about the club’s sporting project.
As if a second season without a major trophy is not enough to cause concerns, reports of in-fighting and issues within the locker room have piled on the problems.
One of the main problems seems to be surrounding superstar forwards Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr., and their seeming inability to work together on the field.
The issue has only been amplified by the Frenchman’s recent trip to Italy while recovering from an injury, which has caused some unrest in the dressing room.
However, according to AS, Real Madrid have no doubts about who should lead the team’s attack next season. Mbappe and Vinicius will share attacking responsibility in a squad that will be strengthened, though without major upheaval.
Zero doubts about Mbappe
Regarding the French forward, the objective at Valdebebas is clear: to channel his full potential for the benefit of both the team and the club.
Everyone, including the player himself, understands that certain situations must change and that recent months have raised questions about the dressing room balance.
In terms of his footballing ability and what he can offer on the pitch, there is no doubt. His potential, already demonstrated at Real Madrid, is widely recognised. However, he has not consistently shown it over his two seasons at the club.
Goals have not been lacking, but they have not translated into collective success. The aim now is to turn that output into control on the pitch and more titles for Real Madrid.
No change in strategy. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
There is confidence this can be achieved, as the club still believes the strategy set at Valdebebas is correct, even with a possible change in management approaching.
No concerns with Vini
As for Vinicius, there is no concern within the club, even with his contract entering its final year. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and his leadership team see the Brazilian as a decisive and fully committed player.
There is no internal debate about his understanding with Mbappe, nor about his contribution, which is supported by his performances over the past five seasons.
The only concern is finding the right balance so that their combination works for the benefit of the team, something that has not been achieved this season when both have been on the pitch.
Bellingham the third pillar
The third player who Real Madrid expect to step up an make a decisive impact is Jude Bellingham. The Englishman is in his third season at the club, and physical issues have prevented him from consistently displaying his best level.
Improvement in his condition has recently allowed him to show a more incisive style of play. Alongside Mbappe and Vinicius, the former Borussia Dortmund player will be another key reference for Real Madrid in the 2026/27 season.
What remains is for the next manager to find the right approach and give structure to their football.
