Former French international striker Christophe Dugarry has spoken out about Kylian Mbappe's performances at the start of the current season with Real Madrid. "He scored in the first game and just scored a brace," Dugarry noted, acknowledging the forward's statistical success. However, he went on to express a more critical view, saying: "Despite having great stats and goals, Kylian Mbappe has been mediocre in his overall game for a very, very long time, whether it's with the French national team, PSG or now Real Madrid."
Dugarry stressed that Mbappe needs to improve in several areas as a striker, saying: "He needs to develop in his role: in the fight, the physicality, the heading and the technical skills." This criticism highlights the expectations that come with being one of the best players in the world. Dugarry pointed out that while Mbappe has undeniable talent, there are aspects of his game that have not evolved as much as they should. "He makes less and less of a difference, and that should make him think. He needs to progress," Dugarry noted, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement for elite athletes.
The former striker also spoke about what he sees as technical limitations in Mbappé’s game. “We know he’s not one of the top ten most technical players in the world,” he said. This observation is particularly relevant when compared to teammates like Vinícius Júnior, whose technical abilities are often highlighted. Dugarry noted: “Today, in the context of a player like Vinícius, his limitations are obvious.” The comparison raises questions about Mbappé’s adaptability and versatility as a striker in a team full of dynamic players.
As the season progresses, the pressure will be on Mbappe to not only maintain his goalscoring record, but also improve other aspects of his game. Dugarry's comments serve as a reminder that even the best players must strive to improve and cannot rest on their laurels. Expectations from fans and analysts alike will be intense, especially given Real Madrid's stature as a club that demands excellence.
In conclusion, Christophe Dugarry’s assessment of Kylian Mbappé highlights the dual nature of being a top player: the need for both statistical success and overall contribution to the team’s play. While Mbappé’s early-season goals are commendable, Dugarry’s critical perspective highlights that there is plenty of room for growth. As Mbappé continues to adjust to life at Real Madrid, fans will be watching closely to see if he can address these issues and elevate his game to meet the high expectations placed on him.
