Ancelotti: Mbappe signing and squad changes altered Real Madrid's chemistry

Carlo Ancelotti reflected on the final months of his time at the Santiago Bernabeu, saying Kylian Mbappe's arrival marked a turning point that required more than tactical tweaks. While Mbappe’s talent was never in question, his integration coincided with the squad losing its traditional leadership core.

Mbappe produced an impressive debut campaign, contributing to 49 goals in 58 appearances — 44 scored and five assists — and finishing as La Liga’s top scorer with 31 goals, also claiming the European Golden Shoe. Despite those individual feats, Real Madrid failed to retain the Champions League and La Liga titles, ending the season without major trophies; Ancelotti then left and Xabi Alonso briefly took charge before being replaced by Alvaro Arbeloa.

Ancelotti said the summer of 2024 brought multiple changes that shifted the dressing-room dynamic: Toni Kroos retired, Nacho left, Dani Carvajal suffered an injury and Luka Modric played less.

Spain, Madrid

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