"Can Ancelotti's Mastery Unite Madrid's New Super Trio? — The Challenges and Excitement of Integrating Mbappé into Real Madrid's Star-Studded Lineup"
Given that Real Madrid are the reigning champions both in Spain and in Europe, finding a place for Mbappé in such a star-studded team will be quite a challenge. But if there’s ever been a coach that mastered leading groups filled with big names, stars and egos, it’s Carlo Ancelotti. Here at Sofascore, we tried to put ourselves in the shoes of the Italian tactician, just for a short while, and tried to see how the French superstar could fit in.
Option A
Even though Kylian Mbappé spent the majority of his time both with Paris Saint-Germain and France on the left wing, that position will likely remain reserved for Real Madrid’s current main attacking threat, Vinícius Júnior. However, this is not a cause for concern since Mbappé has also spent a lot of time playing as the central point of the attack and should have no major problem adapting to the same role in Madrid.
Option B
But, if a strategy works one season, there’s no guarantee it’ll work the next season as well. Mbappé hasn’t really played with a partner up front and might need time to adjust to the new formation, especially if he’ll be starting on the right side of that duo. Such a setup would probably require the full-backs to join the attack, which could further limit Mbappé’s influence in the wide zones of the pitch.
Option C
On paper, the front three is formidable and could be even more terrifying on the pitch. The pace and quality they possess both with the ball in tight areas and in open space is enough to trouble any defense in the world within moments. While Option A could rely on counter-attacking, particularly in major Champions League games, Option C might be better suited for matches where Real Madrid is expected to dominate, play on the front foot, and maintain possession in the opponent’s half. This approach should be the case in most of their LaLiga matches.
The choice of formation is a secondary element for Real Madrid’s success with Kylian Mbappé. A bigger and more complicated task ahead of Ancelotti is fostering the chemistry between his biggest stars — the newcomer Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior. Three of the brightest stars of the new generation, three young lions eager for the spotlight. We’ve seen such trios work seamlessly together, but we’ve also seen them fall apart spectacularly.
If Ancelotti can keep everyone in his dressing room happy and enjoying their football, players of such caliber should connect naturally on the pitch. Given his proven record of achieving this over the years, seeing Carletto lift trophy after trophy in 2025 wouldn’t be surprising at all.
