Ancelotti Defends Mbappe Amid Struggles: "He's Down, But Not Out"

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has come to the defense of Kylian Mbappe, who has faced significant challenges recently. Despite the French striker's troubles on and off the field, including his exclusion from France's upcoming Nations League squad, Ancelotti remains confident that Mbappe will overcome his difficulties.

Mbappe, who is currently under investigation in Sweden for sexual assault, has also struggled to adapt to the high expectations at Real Madrid. This week, the 25-year-old was omitted from France coach Didier Deschamps' squad for the upcoming matches against Israel and Italy. Ancelotti, however, noted that Mbappe's morale was low, like the rest of the team, but emphasized that he remains "motivated."

The French forward's struggles come amid a rough patch for Real Madrid, who are nine points behind Barcelona in La Liga after suffering a 4-0 defeat to their rivals at the end of October. The team also faced a 3-1 loss to AC Milan in the Champions League this past Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Ancelotti, however, insisted that the team's struggles should not be solely blamed on Mbappe. "The problem he's having is everyone's problem," said Ancelotti. "We haven't hit our stride yet. But I'm convinced Mbappe is going to get through this difficult moment."

He further pointed out that other players, such as Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham, are also facing challenges, highlighting that it is a difficult time for the entire team.

When asked about Mbappe's absence from the French squad, Ancelotti refrained from commenting further, respecting the decision made by Deschamps. "It is a decision of the national team coach and I do not have the right to judge it. I do not allow myself to do so," he stated.

France will play Israel on November 14 and face Italy in Milan three days later.