Real Madrid News
Mbappe admits Real Madrid took a “step backwards” after Atletico defeat: ‘It was very tough’
Kylian Mbappe has admitted Real Madrid’s defeat to Atletico Madrid was a “step backwards”, but the French forward has urged his teammates to respond through their performances rather than become consumed by the derby’s refereeing controversy.
Speaking to AS, Mbappe reflected on the 2-1 defeat and acknowledged the frustration inside the Real Madrid camp.
Indeed, the result ended a difficult night for Jose Mourinho’s side, but the forward stressed that there is still plenty of time to change the course of the season.
Mbappe admits Real Madrid took a step backwards
Asked whether the derby defeat represented a setback for Madrid, Mbappe did not attempt to soften his assessment.
“Yes, yes, a step backwards. It was very tough; we wanted to win, we knew what sort of match we were in for.
“But the team gave it their all and we’re moving on because there’s still a long way to go in the season and we have to stay on the right track”.
The match was also dominated by several refereeing incidents, with Real Madrid questioning decisions involving Cristian Romero and Kang-in Lee.
Mbappe, though, was unwilling to turn the interview into another criticism of the officials.
Explaining his position on the controversy, the Frenchman said: “I don’t think I’ve ever been a player who talks much about the referee. I’m not going to start now.
“I have my thoughts, but I keep them to myself. I’ve never been that sort of player and I’m not going to start now.
“The referee is human; he makes mistakes – and those were mistakes – but I don’t want to get into that.”
Mbappe turns focus towards trophies and Zidane
Rather than continuing the discussion around Ortiz Arias, the match referee, Mbappe insisted that Madrid’s response must come on the pitch.
“Yes, yes, work and do more; others can talk, but we have to do more and work to bring back the excitement at Real Madrid and bring back the trophies.”
Mbappe also discussed his new chapter with France under Zinedine Zidane. The appointment has particular significance for the Real Madrid forward because of their history.
“It’s a new chapter with a new manager. The Nations League is coming up – four matches to see how they go – and it’s going to be a new experience for everyone because we’ve all only ever had Deschamps.
“It’s going to be a change for us, but I think it’s all going to work out very well.”
Zidane famously took Mbappe to Real Madrid’s training ground when the youngster was 13 or 14 to assess him. Now, years later, the pair will work together with France.
Recalling that first meeting, Mbappe said: “He was the first person to pick me up and take me to Real Madrid, to the training ground; I was 13 or 14, ages ago. And now he’s my manager.
“It’s like something out of a film, but it’s brilliant. It’s real; we’re in a new phase in France. We’ve got two years to prepare for the European Championship, and that’s what we’re focusing on right now.”
Lastly, the Ballon d’Or remains another subject surrounding Mbappe, with voting set to close in a week. Asked about the race, he added:
“I think I’ve already said everything there is to say on the subject. People weren’t happy when I talked too much about it, but that’s just how it is.
“I’m at peace with it; I’ve done everything I could and I think I’ve done well. And now it’s just a matter of waiting,” he concluded.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
