Kylian Mbappé has publicly addressed his disappointing performance in Real Madrid’s 1-0 loss to Athletic Bilbao, taking full responsibility for his role in the defeat.
The French forward, who has struggled for form since his move from Paris Saint-Germain, missed a key penalty during the match that could have leveled the score.
In a game where his team struggled to break down Bilbao’s defense, Mbappé’s miss, a shot aimed to the right of goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala, was a critical moment.
It was the second consecutive week in which the 25-year-old failed to convert from the spot, having also missed a penalty against Liverpool in the Champions League.
Acknowledging the weight of the situation, Mbappé took to Instagram after the match to express his thoughts.
In a rare moment of openness, the forward wrote: “Bad result. A big mistake in a match where every detail counts.
I take full responsibility for it. A difficult moment, but it’s the best time to change this situation and show who I am.
The message was an attempt to take ownership of his mistakes while reassuring his supporters that he is determined to bounce back.
However, his comments are unlikely to quell the criticism he is facing, particularly from the Spanish press, who have been quick to highlight his underwhelming start to life at Real Madrid.
Despite his evident struggles, Mbappé’s words reflect a resolve to improve and demonstrate his true abilities.
His form has been closely scrutinized since his high-profile transfer to the Spanish capital, and his performance against Bilbao was seen as another disappointing chapter in what has so far been a challenging adaptation to his new club.
In addition to his penalty miss, Mbappé was largely anonymous throughout the match, failing to make the impact that was expected of him following his transfer.
His display highlighted the pressure he is under to perform at a high level for a club with such lofty expectations.
🚨 Kylian Mbappé: “Bad result. A big mistake in a match where every detail count”.
“I take FULL responsibility for it”.
“A difficult moment but it’s the best time to change this situation and show WHO I AM”. pic.twitter.com/cyO6RCudZv
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 4, 2024
With Real Madrid currently facing difficulties in their quest for silverware, Mbappé’s response is seen as a step towards reasserting his status as one of the world’s best players.
It’s a difficult moment,” he admitted, “but I will work hard to get back to my best.
As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Mbappé as he looks to regain his form and prove his worth to both his club and fans worldwide.
