Kylian Mbappe on Defensive Improvements and Team Goals Ahead of Inter Clash

Before Real Madrid's match against Inter at the Bernabeu, Kylian Mbappe spoke openly about the need for both himself and his teammate Vinicius Jr to improve defensively. When asked if they should take inspiration from their time at PSG and contribute more in defense despite being forwards, Mbappe responded:

"Just me and Vinicius? Of course we have to improve. But that’s perfectly natural. I can say that I score more goals than the PSG players, and they should be scoring more. But I have to be smart and admit that I need to improve, even though I do things the others (PSG players) don’t. It’s a never-ending debate. We all need to improve in this area. And with the ball too."

Excitement for Champions League Return

Mbappe expressed his eagerness to be back in the Champions League, emphasizing the team's strong motivation:

"Very happy to be back playing in the Champions League. We always approach this competition with motivation and enthusiasm. We’re in good shape. We’re going to play a very demanding match, but this is the Champions League and it’s a pleasure."

On Team Dynamics with Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham

Discussing rumors about his relationship with fellow stars, Mbappe kept the focus on the team rather than individual rivalries:

"It’s just one opinion among millions about Real Madrid, the biggest club in the world. I can’t control everything that’s said. We all have the same goal, which is to win titles. We can’t control people’s opinions. We listen, try to improve, and move forward."

Regarding squad changes, he added:

"I’m not interested in removing players from the squad. People like it, the press does too, and that’s normal because that’s what sells. I don’t know about you, but I’m focused on the team, on how we can improve. And win titles."

Ballon d'Or and Personal Ambitions

On his association with prestigious awards like the Ballon d'Or, Mbappe stated:

"When you play for Real Madrid, the best club in the world, you’re linked with these awards. When people see me in the street, they talk about it. It’s a positive award for every player. I’ve made a lot of history this summer in the most important competition. But there’s still a long way to go. People are free to think who the best player in the world is."

About whether he considers himself the best player:

"I always do, but it’s very personal. Everyone has their own opinion. Some will think yes, others no. It’s a debate and not everyone has to think like me. This year might be a good one to win the Ballon d'Or, but it’s voted on by journalists, and they’ll be the ones to choose."

Goals Versus Trophies Debate

Mbappe rejected the notion that scoring fewer goals would help win trophies, saying:

"And I buy fewer, too. Even 30. I’m not going to say it’s a debate for people who don’t play football, but it is an absurd one. If I score 40 and we’re fighting for the league, Champions League, cup… should I stop scoring goals because if I score too many… won’t we win? Of course I want to win titles, but it’s not a question of choosing. You have to do both. Score goals and win trophies."

Reflecting on Past Defeats

On the toughest loss of his career, Mbappe reflected:

"It was difficult. The most… I don’t know. Because I’ve lost a World Cup final and a Champions League final. But! I think it was a very beautiful competition for the country because of the image we projected. We can’t always win the World Cup because it’s not always possible. But we’re always hungry. The day you lose that hunger is the day you’re out."

Leadership Roles Differ Between Club and Country

Mbappe shared insights into his leadership at Real Madrid versus France:

"I have two different contexts: the national team and Real Madrid. In each, I have to take a step forward, but with the national team, I’m the captain; here I’m not. I want to improve as a player—not just for France or Real Madrid but to better understand the game at any moment. I’ve had many different coaches, and that’s helped me see how to adapt to each situation. I always say there are many games in one game. This management gives you the maximum amount of information."

Thoughts on PSG's Success After His Departure

When asked about PSG winning titles after he left, Mbappe remained measured:

"Well, I think it’s just another analysis. In the end, talking about myself sells a lot, and I accept that. It’s fine. But it’s just another analysis."