Real Madrid Confidencial Mbappé impressed Xabi Alonso against Leganés, a radical change
The Frenchman showed a spectacular defensive attitude, pressing the defenders and making it difficult for them to play the ball out from the back
Kylian Mbappé delivered one of the most surprising images of the summer yesterday. The French forward, known for his power and goal-scoring ability, stood out for something not always associated with his game: defensive effort.
Real Madrid faced Leganés in a friendly that served as a testing ground for Xabi Alonso. The white coach was looking for more intensity in pressing and commitment in ball recovery. Mbappé understood it perfectly.
The "10" for Madrid ran, pressed, and won back balls. These are actions that weren't seen so often last season at PSG or in his first year at Madrid. Today, the Frenchman gave everything as if it were a final.
Xabi Alonso celebrated it from the bench. The coach wants a much more compact team than last season's. His plan is to correct the defensive gaps that cost points and important matches, knowing that the key starts up front.
High pressing, key in the new Madrid
Both Mbappé and Vinícius must be the first defenders. The coach has repeated it to them in every talk: if the strikers work, the rest of the team gains ground and confidence. The Frenchman gave the perfect example today.
It's not just about running. It's about closing passing lanes, making it hard for the opponent to build from the back, and forcing the rival to make mistakes. Mbappé delivered in all those areas.
The change in attitude was clear. Even the few privileged people present in the stadium applauded his commitment. Some chanted his name after a defensive run of more than 44 yds. (40 m).
Vinícius, the next to step up
Madrid trust this is the beginning of a new version of Mbappé. A more complete, more selfless version, adapted to what Xabi Alonso demands. The goal is for that commitment to be kept throughout the entire season, not just in friendlies.
Vinícius will also have to step up. The attacking duo can be lethal up front, but their effort at the back can make the difference in Europe and LaLiga.
Today, Mbappé didn't just contribute offensively. He also made it clear that he's willing to work for the team. For Xabi Alonso, that's worth almost as much as a hat-trick.
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