Real Madrid has a problem with Vinicius and Mbappé

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Roma Real Madrid

14/10/26 21:00:00

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The latest news from Real Madrid reveals a footballing coexistence issue between Vinicius Junior, the 26-year-old Brazilian winger, and Kylian Mbappé, the 27-year-old French forward. According to Mario Cortegana, they maintain a good personal relationship, but their competition on the field is affecting the team's performance. Some insiders from Valdebebas believe that the definitive solution may involve the departure of one of the two.

Information suggests that the players constantly compare themselves, even in their defensive responsibilities. This situation presents one of the main challenges for José Mourinho, who is seeking a way to harness both players' offensive potential without compromising the collective balance.

The problem is not new. Since Mbappé's arrival in 2024, different coaches have tried to find a system to exploit the qualities of both the Frenchman and the Brazilian. However, difficulties persist at the start of the 2026/27 season.

Real Madrid faces a football and ego problem with Vinicius and Mbappé

As explained by Mario Cortegana, sources within Real Madrid rule out any personal animosity between the two players. The issue arises when they have to share responsibilities and adjust their movements to meet the team's needs.

‼️ PAY ATTENTION to this INFO from @MarioCortegana: "Vinicius and Mbappé don't really get along or hate each other, but they compare everything. If one doesn't defend, the other doesn't either" And more statements that have emerged from Valdebebas in recent months: "The problem won't be resolved until one of the two leaves" "It's a problem of football and ego, but mostly football"

— Madrid Sports (@MadridSports_) October 10, 2026

One of the main concerns is their off-the-ball behavior. According to the journalist, within Valdebebas, there's a perception that both players condition their defensive efforts based on what the other does, leading to situations where neither participates sufficiently in pressing.

This circumstance has tactical consequences. When Vinicius and Mbappé remain disconnected, the rest of the team must cover more spaces during defensive transitions, complicating ball recovery and increasing demands on the midfielders.

Differences also arise in attack. Although Mbappé usually starts from central positions, both tend to seek situations on the left flank. This causes overlaps in certain areas and hinders the distribution of offensive responsibilities.

Statistics further show a performance gap at the beginning of the season. In the first eight matches, Mbappé scored eight goals and provided two assists, while Vinicius accumulated one goal and three assists.

Real Madrid believes that the departure of one could solve the problem

The most significant conclusion from The Athletic's information comes from a source familiar with the team's workings. Their assessment is that structural difficulties may persist as long as Vinicius and Mbappé continue to share offensive prominence.

This viewpoint is conveyed to the journalist and is not a decision made by the board. Currently, there's no confirmation that Real Madrid has put either of the two players up for sale due to this situation.

For now, José Mourinho remains intent on having both players. The coach believes they can influence games and is working on improving their positioning on the field, especially during counterattacks and defensive phases.

The coach has made adjustments to the 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming for the forwards to protect specific areas without wearing themselves out, thus reducing their offensive contribution. He also aims to prevent them from consistently occupying the same sector.

The next test will come in the games in October, with the matches against Villarreal and the subsequent Clásico against FC Barcelona. Mourinho will have to see if his adjustments allow for an improved connection between the two forwards, while Real Madrid continues not to publicly consider a player's departure as a solution to the problem.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Real Madrid tiene un problema con Vinicius y Mbappé