Benzema believes Mbappe's positional change is essential for his success at Real Madrid.
The pressure at Real Madrid is significantly higher than at previous clubs, impacting player performance.
Benzema's advice highlights the importance of adapting to team dynamics and roles for individual success.
If Mbappe successfully adapts to the center-forward role, he may increase his goal tally and improve his standing with fans.
Continued struggles may lead to increased scrutiny and pressure from both the media and fans, potentially affecting his confidence.
If he learns to manage the pressure, Mbappe could become a key player for Real Madrid in the long term.
Benzema's Insights on Mbappe's Struggles at Real Madrid
Karim Benzema, the former Real Madrid star, recently shared his perspective on Kylian Mbappe's challenging start at the club. Despite scoring 8 goals and providing 2 assists in 14 matches this season, Mbappe has faced criticism for not fully integrating into the team, especially following a disappointing performance in the recent El Clasico against Barcelona, where Real Madrid suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat.
Benzema emphasized that Mbappe needs to adjust his mindset regarding his position on the field. He suggested that Mbappe should abandon the idea of playing on the left wing, where Vinicius Junior currently excels, and instead embrace the role of a center forward, which is the position coach Carlo Ancelotti has assigned to him. Benzema stated, "Mbappe must keep in mind that he must be the number 9 player, and forget about the left." This shift in position is crucial, as Vinicius is regarded as one of the best players in the world in his current role.
Pressure and Expectations at Real Madrid
In addition to positional challenges, Benzema highlighted the immense pressure that comes with playing for Real Madrid. He noted that if a player goes two or three games without scoring, they face significant scrutiny from fans and media. "In a club like Real Madrid, if you don't score in two or three games in a row, they kill you. He has to learn how to live with that," Benzema explained. He urged Mbappe to adopt a mindset that embraces this pressure positively, as it is part of the expectations that come with being a top player at the club.
A Comparison of Early Careers
Benzema drew parallels between his own early career at Real Madrid and Mbappe's current situation. He acknowledged that while both faced challenges, the contexts were different, particularly in terms of age and experience. At 36, Benzema now plays for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, but he spent 14 successful seasons at Real Madrid, where he became the club's second all-time top scorer. He believes that with time and adaptation, Mbappe can harness his talent and thrive at Real Madrid, just as he did during his own tenure.
