Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior criticised by Bale after poor showing against Liverpool

Former Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale has criticised Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior following their lacklustre performances in the 1-0 defeat to Liverpool on Tuesday night.

Mbappe, who has Cameroonian and Algerian roots, and Vinicius, also of Cameroonian descent, both struggled to make an impact at Anfield.

Liverpool dominated proceedings, with Alexis Mac Allister’s second-half strike proving decisive as Arne Slot’s men recorded back-to-back victories over the Spanish champions.

Speaking to CBS Sports after the match, Bale expressed disappointment in the attacking duo’s performance, noting their inability to produce the creativity expected of Real Madrid players.

“I think it was that spark that (Thierry) Henry and I were talking about, that we didn’t see Mbappe and Vinicius in the final third work a bit of magic and bring Madrid back into the game,” Bale said.

The Welshman, who won five Champions League titles during his time with Los Blancos, felt both players failed to take advantage of their pace and skill.

“It was a bit disappointing that in that final third, there wasn’t really that kind of quality that you expect from Real Madrid players.

“It’s frustrating, I think they overcomplicate things. Sometimes they just need to try and test the defender. They are clearly faster than anyone else on the pitch,” he added.

Bale also suggested the absence of a traditional striker contributed to their struggles in front of goal.

“Maybe they don’t do it because there’s no one else in the box waiting for the crosses. Maybe they need that reference number nine,” he observed.

Neither Mbappe nor Vinicius managed a shot on target, as Liverpool’s young right-back Conor Bradley contained both threats throughout the contest.

The defeat leaves Real Madrid with work to do ahead of their weekend La Liga clash against Rayo Vallecano, where Xabi Alonso will hope for a stronger attacking response from his star forwards.