Carlo Ancelotti’s Tactical Switch Pays Off as Mbappé Shines in Real Madrid’s 3-0 Win Over Leganés
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti had nothing but praise for Kylian Mbappé after the French superstar delivered a standout performance in a new role during Madrid’s 3-0 LaLiga victory over Leganés on Sunday. The tactical tweak, which saw Mbappé operating from the left side of the attack, proved to be a masterstroke as the forward ended his five-game goal drought in style.
Mbappé opened the scoring in the 43rd minute at Butarque, finishing off a perfectly timed pass from Vinícius Júnior. The goal set the tone for a dominant Madrid performance, with Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham adding second-half strikes to secure all three points for Los Blancos.
Mbappé Back in Form After Position Switch
For Mbappé, this was a much-needed return to form. The forward had faced criticism in recent weeks after going four matches without finding the back of the net. Sunday’s goal marked his seventh in 12 LaLiga appearances this season, and Ancelotti was quick to highlight the impact of the positional adjustment.
“It was a good game from beginning to end,” Ancelotti said during his post-match press conference. “The team was solid and focused. We changed the positions of the forwards a bit, with Mbappé on the outside, and he did well. Vinícius did well too, on the inside. We opened the scoring, and after that, the team controlled the game well.”
Mbappé’s move to the left allowed Vinícius to take up a more central role, a switch that seemed to benefit both players. Ancelotti explained the reasoning behind the change, noting that Mbappé is “more used to playing on the left” and was fresher than Vinícius, who had just returned from international duty.
“Mbappé was fresher than Vinícius,” Ancelotti added. “He did very well with the goal, after a fantastic assist from Vini. Little by little, the two are getting better.”
Valverde Shines in Makeshift Right-Back Role
Another standout performer for Madrid was Federico Valverde, who filled in at right-back due to injuries to Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez. The Uruguayan midfielder showcased his versatility, earning high praise from Ancelotti, who even suggested Valverde could feature in the same role during Madrid’s crucial Champions League clash against Liverpool on Wednesday.
“Valverde is a fantastic full-back,” Ancelotti said. “After Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez, he’s the best in the world! The problem is choosing where he’s best for the team. But he’s incredibly versatile. We’ll see if Lucas and [Aurelien] Tchouaméni recover for Wednesday, and then we’ll see.”
Key Takeaways from Madrid’s Win
- Mbappé’s resurgence: The French forward ended a five-game goal drought and looked comfortable in his new left-sided role.
- Vinícius’ adaptability: The Brazilian thrived in a central position, providing a crucial assist for Mbappé’s goal.
- Valverde’s versatility: The midfielder excelled as a makeshift right-back, giving Ancelotti a reliable option in the absence of Carvajal and Vázquez.
With this win, Madrid will head into their midweek Champions League showdown at Anfield with renewed confidence. However, the stakes are high, as Los Blancos have already suffered two defeats in their first four group-stage matches. A win against Liverpool is essential to keep their European campaign on track.
As for Mbappé, this performance could mark the beginning of a return to his best form. If he and Vinícius can continue to build chemistry in their adjusted roles, Madrid’s attack could become even more dangerous in the weeks to come.
For now, though, Ancelotti and his squad can savor a well-earned victory and the promise of even better things to come.
Originally Written by: ESPN Staff
