A fresh report has added more pressure on Kylian Mbappe at Real Madrid, and this time, it is not about goals, but what he does without the ball.
According to a recent study published by the CIES Football Observatory, the French forward ranks among the players who cover the least distance when their team is not in possession.
The study looked at players across 46 leagues, focusing on their off-ball work compared to teammates.
Mbappe’s name appearing in this list has raised eyebrows, especially given his role as the main attacking figure at Real Madrid.
He is ranked fifth, alongside some well-known names such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Artem Dzyuba and Sebastian Villa.
Evident problem concerning the Frenchman
While being in such company highlights his attacking profile, it also brings attention to a growing concern.
In modern football, pressing and off-ball movement are just as important as scoring goals.
Teams rely heavily on players to contribute defensively, and any gap in that area can affect the overall balance.
At Real Madrid, this has become a talking point in recent weeks. Despite his strong goal numbers, there are concerns about how well he links up with teammates and how much he contributes when the team is trying to win the ball back.
These issues have slowly become more visible, especially in games where Madrid have struggled to control the tempo.
All eyes on Mbappe
Notably, Real Madrid are going through a difficult period, with expectations remaining high but results not always matching them.
The team has not been able to dominate as they would like, and questions are now being asked about the overall system and how each player fits into it.
Mbappe’s situation is also made more serious by the lack of major trophies in recent seasons.
As he approaches his late 20s, the focus is shifting from potential to achievement, as at a club like Real Madrid, success is not optional – it is expected.
