Despite sitting atop La Liga and securing a place in the Champions League quarter-finals, Real Madrid finds itself grappling with an unexpected challenge.
The much-anticipated attacking partnership between Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior has yet to fully flourish, raising concerns within the club.
Mbappé and Vinícius: A work in progress
Hailed as a dream duo capable of terrorizing defenses, Mbappé and Vinícius have struggled to form a seamless connection on the pitch.
Their individual brilliance remains undisputed, but their ability to complement each other in Real Madrid’s attacking setup remains a work in progress.
Spanish media reports have speculated about a lack of chemistry between the two superstars.
While some outlets suggest underlying tension, Relevo clarifies that their relationship is neither hostile nor particularly close.
According to sources close to both players, they maintain a professional rapport but do not share a deep personal bond off the pitch.
This dynamic could be influencing their ability to link up effectively during matches.
Ancelotti’s tactical challenge
For manager Carlo Ancelotti, the task at hand is to unlock the full potential of his two star forwards without compromising the team’s attacking efficiency.
The Italian tactician must find a tactical structure that allows both players to thrive without stepping on each other’s toes.
While Real Madrid’s attacking prowess remains formidable, a lack of synergy between their two most lethal assets could prove costly in crucial moments.
With La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey still within reach, the need for cohesion in the final third has never been greater.
Real Madrid fans and officials alike will be hoping that Ancelotti can fine-tune the system to ensure Mbappé and Vinícius deliver their best performances when it matters most.
For now, the challenge remains, but the season is far from over.
Real Madrid must navigate these growing pains if they are to maximize their chances of lifting silverware on multiple fronts.
So far this season, Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Junior have been on the pitch together in 35 matches. In only 8 of the 35 have both managed to score.
— @relevo pic.twitter.com/BNUQPbIPzv
— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) March 14, 2025