Michel Platini praises Kylian Mbappe for thriving Under Pressure at Real Madrid

Former UEFA president Michel Platini believes Kylian Mbappe accepted huge pressure when he decided to join Real Madrid, but says the French star is responding in the best possible way by scoring relentlessly.

“Kylian Mbappe took a big risk by moving to Real Madrid. Expectations are high, but he is playing very well… He truly plays well and, in the end, scores a lot of goals,” Platini said, noting that Mbappe has become more of a pure finisher than in his Monaco or early PSG days.

According to Platini, Mbappe now operates mainly as a centre-forward, tasked with finishing moves rather than influencing every phase of play.

He pointed out that the forward once roamed wider, dribbling, crossing and creating more for teammates, but now channels most of his energy into ending attacks. Even so, Platini insists this shift suits both player and club: “Perhaps that is exactly what Madrid want from him to score.”

Despite observing this evolution, Platini made clear his admiration has not changed. “I adore Kylian Mbappe as a footballer. There is no question he is an outstanding player,” he said, stressing that his comments are an observation rather than a criticism.

Mbappe has already hit 38 goals and 5 assists in 33 club appearances this season.
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