Kylian Mbappe finally completed a move to Real Madrid. The Frenchman had dreamt for a long time about joining the Spanish giants. However, his journey to the Spanish capital was not that smooth. Firstly, he rejected a move to Real Madrid about 2-3 seasons ago. There were a lot of speculations about an extended stay at PSG. However, Mbappe decided to end his time in Paris and moved to Spain.
The Frenchman marked his debut with a goal against Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup match. Kylian Mbappe is one of the best players in the world. However, he failed to make an instant impact in Spain. Kylian was unable to open his account in the first three games. He needed a spark and got it before the international break. Mbappe broke his deadlock and has scored in the last three games across all competitions. Here is a look at how the Frenchman changed his fortunes at Madrid.
From zero to three in two games
Real Madrid started their campaign against Mallorca. This was followed by games against Real Valladolid and Las Palmas. Carlo Anclotti’s men only managed five points in the first three games. They needed a strong comeback and won the next two matches 2-0 against Real Betis and Real Sociedad.
The above two touch maps show that Mbappe likes to drift towards his much favoured left side. He took plenty of touches inside the box but mostly towards the wider areas. In the last two matches, Mbappe has tried to occupy the vacant spot in the middle. These are scoring areas for any forward. Taking more central positions has also helped the Frenchman to build some confidence.
There is a huge difference in the amount of progressive runs made. Kylian Mbappe was trying to take on defenders down the left flank. However, in the last two games things have changed. The number of progressive runs has gone down but the attempts to penetrate the opposition’s penalty box have gone up.
The Frenchman averaged six shots per match in the first three games. His accuracy rate was 33.33%. Almost every shot was attempted from a wider angle. Mbappe failed to get into central zones. Most of the shot attempts came from the position of a winger and not a striker.
Kylian Mbappe scored his first LaLiga goal from open play. He managed to take a central position just outside the six-yard box. His two other goals came from the spot. Kylian has attempted 12 shots in the last two games. His accuracy has improved to 42%.
Carlo Ancelotti has reduced a bit of time on the ball. Mbappe was involved in a lot of plays down the flanks. Now, he is receiving more passes than creating plays for the team.
Impact on UCL debut
Kylian Mbappe marked his UEFA Champions League debut with a goal. He attempted seven shots and four were on target. The touch map and shot map indicate how Mbappe got into better scoring positions. The goal was scored from inside the six-yard box.
Real Madrid will be happy with Mbappe’s current form. He has four goals in the last three games. Real Madrid will aim to defend their league and European crown.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine