Kylian Mbappe Reflects on Defending, Teamwork, and Ambitions at Real Madrid

Before facing Inter Milan at the Bernabeu, Kylian Mbappe shared his thoughts on defense and teamwork. When asked if he and Vinicius Jr should follow PSG's example by defending more despite being attackers, Mbappe responded that everyone needs to get better defensively and with the ball. He admitted, "I score more goals than the PSG players, and they should be scoring more. But I have to be smart and admit that I need to improve, even though I do things the others don't. It's a never-ending debate. We all need to improve in this area."

Mbappe on Returning to Champions League Action

Expressing excitement about playing in the Champions League again, Mbappe said, "We always approach this competition with motivation and enthusiasm. We're in good shape. We're going to play a very demanding match, but this is the Champions League and it's a pleasure."

Views on Chemistry with Vinicius Jr and Bellingham

Regarding his relationship with Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham, Mbappe dismissed rumors about removing players from the squad. "People like it, the press does too, and that's normal because that's what sells," he explained. "I'm focused on the team, on how we can improve. And win titles."

Comments on the Ballon d'Or and Personal Ambitions

Talking about the Ballon d'Or, Mbappe acknowledged its significance for Real Madrid players. "When you play for Real Madrid, the best club in the world, you're associated with these awards. I've made a lot of history this summer in the most important competition. But there's still a long way to go. People are free to think who the best player in the world is."

On whether he considers himself the best, Mbappe admitted, "I always do, but it's a very personal thing. Everyone has their own opinion. Some will think yes, others no. This year might be a good one to win the Ballon d'Or, but it's voted on by journalists, and they'll be the ones to choose."

Balancing Goals and Trophies

Mbappe discussed the idea of scoring less to win trophies, calling it "an absurd debate." He said, "If I score 40 and we're fighting for the league, Champions League, cup... should I stop scoring goals because if I score too many, won't we win? Of course I want to win titles, but it's not a question of choosing. You have to do both. Score goals and win trophies."

Reflecting on Losses and Leadership

When asked about the toughest defeat, including the loss against Spain, Mbappe noted, "I've lost a World Cup final and a Champions League final. But I think it was a beautiful competition for the country because of the image we projected. We can't always win the World Cup because it's not always possible. But we're always hungry. The day you lose that hunger is the day you're out."

On leadership roles, he stated, "I have two different contexts: the national team and Real Madrid. I'm the captain for France, but here I am not. Still, I want to improve as a player, not just for France or Real Madrid, but to understand the game better. Different coaches have helped me see how to adapt to each situation because there are many games in one game."

Thoughts on PSG’s Success After His Departure

Regarding PSG winning after he left, Mbappe shrugged it off as "just another analysis." He added, "Talking about myself sells a lot, and I accept that. It's fine. But it's just another analysis."