Former Real Madrid midfielder Álvaro Benito has raised concerns over Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior’s defensive contributions, arguing that their lack of work off the ball is making the team more vulnerable.
His comments follow Real Madrid’s recent defeat to Real Betis in La Liga and their Champions League victory over Atlético Madrid.
Defensive commitment under scrutiny
Speaking in an interview with El Larguero, Benito pointed out that the attacking duo has not met the necessary defensive standards, which he believes is putting additional strain on the rest of the team.
“When Mbappé and Vinícius do not work defensively, the team suffers. Their pressing and tracking back are crucial for maintaining balance. When they contribute defensively, the midfielders and central defenders are better positioned, making the team less exposed,” he explained.
Benito referenced Real Madrid’s performance against Manchester City as an example of how effective defensive coordination can improve overall team structure.
However, he suggested that, aside from a few moments this season, Madrid has struggled to press high and contain top-level opponents.
Ancelotti addressing the issue
Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly been aware of this problem and has worked on getting his star attackers to press more effectively.
While both players are known for their attacking brilliance, their reluctance to track back has, at times, left Madrid vulnerable in transitions.
Real Madrid’s ability to press high up the pitch and control games has been inconsistent this season, with stronger opponents often exploiting these gaps to dominate possession.
A tactical dilemma
While Vinícius and Mbappé’s attacking qualities are undeniable, their defensive work rate remains a topic of debate.
For a team aiming for both domestic and European success, finding the right balance between attacking freedom and defensive discipline will be key.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Ancelotti can instill greater defensive responsibility in his star forwards without compromising their attacking effectiveness.
