Carlo Ancelotti believes that self-reflection has helped Real Madrid overcome tough times.
Kylian Mbappé faced intense criticism for his overall performance, including missing two penalties within a week. During this period, the French forward reportedly engaged in self-criticism, which Ancelotti believes played a key role in helping him bounce back.
In Real Madrid’s final match of the year, they defeated Sevilla 4-2 in La Liga on Sunday, moving up to second place in the points table, surpassing Barcelona. Mbappé opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a bullet shot and also provided an assist. The other three goals were scored by Federico Valverde, Rodrigo, and Brahim Díaz.
In the last eight matches for Real, Mbappé has scored six goals. Overall, in 24 matches this season across all competitions, he has scored 14 goals.
After joining Real Madrid last summer following the expiration of his contract with PSG, Mbappé struggled to adjust to his new surroundings. His form was inconsistent, and he was sidelined due to injuries. He also faced criticism for missing penalties against Liverpool in the Champions League and against Athletic Bilbao in La Liga.
As a team, Real Madrid was also struggling. In October, they suffered a crushing 4-0 defeat to Barcelona at home in La Liga. They also lost 3-1 at home to AC Milan in the Champions League. In the new format of the competition, they lost three out of six matches, leaving them 20th in the standings.
Ancelotti acknowledged that the lack of mental toughness and collective effort had been holding the team back. However, self-reflection helped them rediscover their rhythm.
“After the defeat to AC Milan, we had a very clear conversation in the dressing room and sorted everything out. Through self-criticism, we realized what we were missing—mental strength, collective commitment, and a bit more running,” Ancelotti explained.
“We did things the way we should have, and that’s how we managed to recover. Mbappé identified his mistakes, and that’s why he has come out of a situation that could have become more complicated.”
Despite an injury-ravaged squad, Real Madrid has had an extraordinary year in 2024, winning five trophies. They claimed the Spanish Super Cup, Champions League, La Liga, UEFA Super Cup, and last week, they lifted the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
Ancelotti is pleased with the team’s overall performance this year and remains hopeful for more success in the upcoming year.
“In 2024, I would give the team an A+. Last season was fantastic. We started this season in an even more difficult position, but we’ve been able to correct things in time. We have hope for 2025, but replicating this year’s success will be tough. We will try.”
