LaLiga: ‘I saw him defending like animal’ – Mourinho speaks on Mbappe being Real Madrid’s problem

Jose Mourinho, the manager of Real Madrid, has addressed the criticism aimed at Kylian Mbappe, stating that the French forward has now become a greater issue for the club than a benefit. Mbappe climbed to joint-fifth in the all-time Champions League goal-scoring list following his opening goal in a 2-1 victory over Inter Milan earlier in the week.

However, he encountered jeers from the home fans at the Bernabeu stadium. Observers have criticized Mbappe for his lack of defensive efforts, yet Mourinho came to his defense. Mbappe is in the running for this year’s Ballon d’Or, having scored 42 goals in 44 matches for Real Madrid last season. He likened Mbappe to a tree with a bounty of fruit during a press conference before the match against Rayo Vallecano.

"In any case, a player who has contributed over 40 goals to a team is never a problem," Mourinho remarked. "I observed Kylian putting in his utmost best. He was defending with the tenacity of an animal, even when he had no strength left. His attitude is exceptional. Witnessing a player like that is a pleasure for me." Even though Mbappe's scoring ability is not in question, Real Madrid did not clinch any trophies last season, and this could possibly be a factor contributing to the frustration of the fans.