Mbappe Criticizes Real Madrid’s Desire After UCL Setback

Kylian Mbappe’s Frustration with Real Madrid Boils Over

Kylian Mbappe did not hold back after Real Madrid’s stunning defeat to Benfica, openly questioning the “desire” of his teammates and declaring that Los Blancos are far from a “team of champions” following their slide into the Champions League knockout play-offs. The French superstar’s candid criticism comes in the wake of a disappointing 4-2 loss in Lisbon, which left Real Madrid finishing ninth in the league phase—a result that forces the Spanish giants to navigate the perilous play-off round to keep their continental ambitions alive.

Kylian Mbappe Calls Out Real Madrid’s Lack of Desire

Mbappe’s post-match interview was direct and uncompromising. “It isn’t about quality, and it isn’t about tactics. It’s about having more desire than your opponent,” he remarked, highlighting the gulf in ambition that he saw between Real Madrid and Benfica on the night. The World Cup winner, who scored twice but was left frustrated by the team’s overall performance, emphasized that true champions show consistency and fight in critical moments—qualities he believes his current side is lacking.

Real Madrid’s night in Portugal was marred by defensive lapses and a calamitous late goal from Benfica’s goalkeeper Anatoliy Turbin. This embarrassing concession in the 98th minute underscored deeper issues at the club, which has been unsettled by managerial changes, with Alvaro Arbeloa stepping in as interim head coach after Xabi Alonso’s departure.

Real Madrid Struggle Under Pressure in Europe

For a club synonymous with European glory, Real Madrid’s recent Champions League performance has been subpar. A top-eight finish would have guaranteed safe passage to the last 16, but the team faltered when it mattered most. “We wanted to have time in February to work on our play, and instead we’ll play the play-offs,” Mbappe lamented. The inconsistency has been glaring—after a humiliating Copa del Rey exit to Albacete, brief league successes were followed by this crucial defeat.

Benfica, led by former Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho, seized the opportunity with conviction. Despite Mbappe’s early goal, Real quickly lost their grip on the match and trailed by halftime. “They deserved to score first. We had one chance and scored. I thought that would get us into the game, but it was the opposite,” said Mbappe, reflecting on the team’s lack of response and inability to match Benfica’s intensity.

Crisis of Attitude and Leadership at Los Blancos

Reports from Spain suggest that Mbappe’s patience is wearing thin with the attitudes of some teammates. Known for his high standards, the forward has netted 36 goals in 29 appearances this season but feels that not all of his colleagues are matching his commitment. The season’s instability, both on and off the pitch, has raised questions about leadership and cohesion at Real Madrid.

“I don’t have a clear explanation. We aren’t being consistent in our play. We have to solve that. We can’t do it one day, and then not another. A team of champions doesn’t do that,” Mbappe asserted, signaling a need for urgent improvement. With a tough play-off draw looming—either a rematch with Benfica or a tie against Bodo/Glimt—there is little room for error.

What’s Next for Real Madrid and Mbappe?

Real Madrid will soon discover their next play-off opponent, knowing that another slip could prematurely end their Champions League dreams. Domestically, they will look to recover as they host Rayo Vallecano in La Liga, aiming to regain some momentum.

For more news on Real Madrid’s Champions League journey and football’s biggest stories, visit for more news.

Opinion: Can Real Madrid Regain Their Edge?

Mbappe’s frank assessment shines a harsh light on problems that have simmered at Real Madrid all season. Passion, consistency, and unity are the hallmarks of champions, and right now, Los Blancos appear to be lacking in all three areas. If Real Madrid hope to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite, the squad must quickly rediscover its hunger and collective drive—or face more painful headlines in the weeks ahead.