Kylian Mbappé Under Fire Despite Real Madrid Win Over Getafe

Kylian Mbappé’s confidence received a much-needed boost this weekend after scoring for Real Madrid in their dominant 3-0 victory over Getafe. However, despite his well-executed goal, criticism has followed, highlighting issues that the French star continues to face as he adjusts to life at the Spanish giants.

Mbappé’s recent performance at Anfield was marked by a missed penalty and a disappointing 0-2 defeat to Liverpool, an experience that has lingered in the spotlight. Yet, against Getafe, the Bondy-born forward showed his class, scoring a brilliant goal from a slick pass by Jude Bellingham, rounding off a sublime solo run with an impeccable finish.

However, a separate moment in the match also caught the attention of critics. Mbappé made the decision to let his teammates take the penalties, passing on the chance to convert one himself despite earlier efforts to hand the spot kick to Rodrygo, which was eventually not awarded. Jude Bellingham, the team’s other penalty taker, successfully converted a penalty to open the scoring for Madrid.

This decision has drawn significant backlash, especially from former Real Madrid midfielder Guti. On the popular Spanish football show El Chiringuito, Guti expressed his discontent with Mbappé’s reluctance to take responsibility. He argued that in order to establish himself as a leader, much like Cristiano Ronaldo did during his time at the club, Mbappé must overcome his insecurities and take ownership of key moments like penalty kicks—regardless of the outcome.

Guti said, “You have to overcome that insecurity through actions like these. Even if he misses, it’s part of the game. Just because he missed at Liverpool doesn’t mean he should shy away from taking penalties. People expect more from him. Even if he misses again, like against Getafe, it won’t matter. These moments build character, and it’s how you become a leader.”

While Mbappé’s goal against Getafe was a timely reminder of his attacking prowess, his decision to defer the penalty duties has sparked a larger debate about his role at Real Madrid. To truly cement himself as a leader of the club and fill the void left by previous talismanic figures like Ronaldo, Mbappé may need to embrace these pressure situations and show resilience, regardless of the consequences.