“They never needed this guy” – Fans turn on Kylian Mbappe as Real Madrid star misses second penalty in two games in 2-1 loss to Athletic Club

Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe missed a crucial penalty in the 2-1 loss to Atheltic Club in La Liga on Wednesday.

“They never needed this guy” – Fans turn on Kylian Mbappe as Real Madrid star misses second penalty in two games in 2-1 loss to Athletic Club

Kylian Mbappe has now missed two consecutive penalties (Via Reuters & X/@MadridXtra)

Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe made headlines for all the wrong reasons as Los Blancos suffered a 2-1 loss to Athletic Club. Despite a fight back in the second half from Jude Bellingham, a late error from Federico Valverde meant that Real ended the game on the wrong side of the scoreline.

Mbappe’s first big moment in the game came early, when he thought he’d scored. However, a swift offside call let the hosts off the hook as the first half ended 0-0.

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The second half saw Madrid go behind in eight minutes, although minute 68 gave the visitors a way back in. While many backed the player to score, his unconvincing strike to Julen Agirrezabala‘s left was comfortably punched away.

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While Mbappe apologized for his penalty, manager Carlo Ancelotti backed his star.

A big mistake in a match where every detail counts. I take full responsibility for it.

Kylian Mbappe told the press

The 25-year-old also took control of his situation, announcing that it is the best time to change this situation and show who he really is. Ancelotti said that he will not be judging Mbappe for the miss or the result.

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Fans react to Kylian Mbappe’s penalty miss

With two missed penalties in his last three games, fans have begun to lose patience with Real Madrid’s No. 9. A fan commented that Real Madrid never needed the former Paris Saint-Germain to start with, and now his presence will hold the team back. Another added that he’s giving more and more reasons not to defend him with every passing game.

Kylian Mbappe's Penalty vs Athletic Club
Real Madrid cannot overtake Barca now by winning its game in hand (Via X/@brfootball)

Some fans, however, refused to turn their backs on the player, as they showed confidence when claiming that it won’t be long before he reaches flow state. One recalled how Vinicius Jr. used to struggle during his initial years at the club and is now the best player in the line-up.

Reacting to what Carlo Ancelotti said about Kylian Mbappe, a fan said that both of them should leave the club. Madrid’s next game in La Liga is against Girona, who is currently 8th in the table. The loss to Athletic Club now means that Real cannot overtake Barcelona by winning the remaining game in hand. Real is on 33 points from 15 games while Barcelona has 37 from 16.