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Following an extended break after Euro 2024, Real Madrid’s latest star addition, Kylian Mbappe, has joined the squad for training ahead of their UEFA Super Cup clash against Atalanta (August 14). The Frenchman shared some pictures from his first day on social media.
Mbappe’s performance in the Euros was somewhat disappointing, as his team was eliminated in the semi-finals by Spain. However, he had little time to dwell on this, as Real Madrid will resume action in a week, with Mbappe expected to make his debut donning the famous white jersey.
The 25-year-old joined the Spanish side from PSG after his contract with the Parisians concluded at the end of last season. He has also taken the number 9 jersey, previously worn by Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo, when he joined from Manchester United in 2009.
On social media platform X, Mbappe was seen enjoying a pleasant interaction with manager Carlo Ancelotti, as well as French teammates Aurelien Tchouameni and Ferland Mendy.
Mbappe was also photographed with Jude Bellingham, who had just returned to Madrid after leading England to the Euros final, with the caption on his post reading:
"Dia 1. Hala Madrid!" (Day 1, Hala Madrid).
With high expectations following his move from PSG and the impressive firepower of Real Madrid, the team is anticipated to win the La Liga title yet again. They are strong favorites to win the Champions League this season as well.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti reveals Kylian Mbappe’s potential role in the team
Real Madrid had a mixed pre-season, with two defeats to AC Milan and Barcelona, followed by a 2-1 victory over Chelsea in their final match. Carlo Ancelotti might have hoped for better results, but the absence of several key players allowed a few young talents to show their potential.
The real challenge now lies ahead. Ancelotti has numerous attacking options, and it will be intriguing to see how he integrates them all.
When asked about Mbappe’s potential role and the balance of Real Madrid’s attack, the Italian stated that no player has a fixed position, as he prefers flexibility in his attack. He also cited the lineup against Chelsea, where Brahim Diaz, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo played up front, as an indication of his approach.
"Today (against Chelsea) we started with Brahim in the middle, Rodrygo on the right and Vini on the left, on the outside. Many times, Brahim went to the right, Vinicius inside, Rodrygo to the left. Mobility is very important with the quality of the men we have, they should not have a fixed position the entire game," Ancelotti said.
"The important thing is that when we don’t have the ball, whoever plays on the right has to work on the right. And whomever is in the middle helps the midfielders. With the ball, mobility is essential. If you fix your position with the ball, it is much easier for the opponent."
After their Super Cup match against Atalanta, Real Madrid will begin their La Liga campaign with an away game against Mallorca on August 18, followed by their first home match against Real Valladolid on August 25.
