Mbappe Misses Alonso’s Calm as Real Madrid Navigates Arbeloa Era

Mbappe's Mood in the Alonso Era

A Spanish radio report sparked debate among Madrid circles by addressing Kylian Mbappe's mental state and his relationship with Real Madrid's current coaching staff, even as the forward continues to post high scoring numbers despite the team's managerial changes.

Real Madrid is in a transitional phase with interim coach Alvaro Arbeloa, who took charge after Xabi Alonso's departure in January, amid efforts to keep locker-room stability amid pressure from results and both domestic and European competition.

Locker Room Dynamics Under Arbeloa

El Partidazo de COPE, the famous COPE radio program, revealed that Mbappe felt happier and more at ease during Alonso's spell in charge than under Arbeloa.

They explained that the difference isn't about tactics or scoring, but about management style and how the dressing room is handled, which reflected on the player's mood in the locker room.

The report also noted that Mbappe built a special rapport with Alonso during his short spell in charge, appearing more emotionally in sync with him, while he currently experiences a different phase with Arbeloa despite continuing to shine on the pitch.

The program adds that this difference in approach doesn't show directly in Mbappe's attacking output, as he has nine goals in the last six games under Arbeloa, and 22 goals in 25 league matches this season, along with seven assists.

Punchline: If moods were goals, Mbappe would be chasing a golden boot in the mood-ometer.

Punchline 2: When you think it's all about tactics, the locker room serves you a plot twist and a standing ovation for the drama department.