Ancelotti Sees Mbappe's Action To Leave The Penalty To Bellingham As An Altruism

Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham remain silent about the back criticism leading to them (Instagram/@realmadrid).

Carlo Ancelotti supported Kylian Mbappe for not taking a penalty kick for Real Madrid against Getafe on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

The French striker gave a 12-fit shot to Jude Bellingham who managed to complete his job.

Mbappe's actions were allegedly because he was under pressure to score at the Santiago Bernabeu after scoring only two goals in the previous nine matches.

In addition, he also failed to take a penalty kick against Liverpool at Anfield in the Champions League match four days before against Getafe.

No wonder, when Real Madrid were awarded a penalty in the 30th minute, Mbappe turned down the opportunity, hinting at giving it to Bellingham.

Apart from Mbappe, Bellingham was a regular Real Madrid penalty taker with Vinicius Junior who was injured.

However, Carlo Ancelotti dismissed the notion that Mbappe was under pressure. Instead, the Italian manager revealed that the 25-year-old forward acted appropriately.

Ancelotti calls it an altruism or attitude that prioritizes or pays attention to the interests of others.

"Bellingham or Mbappe, one of the two, whoever is in the best condition (can kick a penalty)."

"This is not a debate. There are two sides. (What) Mbappe did against Getafe, you may see it as unsafe."

"However, it is an act of responsibility and altruism. He (Mbappe) is a player with extraordinary talent."

"He may be the greatest talent in football. He puts it (to serve) the team. I really appreciate that, personally," Ancelotti said at a press conference on Tuesday, December 3, 2024.

Mbappe's appearance has indeed been in the spotlight in recent weeks although he has scored eight goals in 13 La Liga games this season.

In fact, after refusing to take a penalty, a journalist threw a statement at Ancelotti that Mbappe's actions showed a lack of leadership and courage.

However, Ancelotti again denied this statement.

"I don't see it that way. It matters to the team, team-mates, all of us, in the dressing room."

"We appreciate it as I said before, the act of altruism is great. When a great talent is altruistic, you are on the right track," said Ancelotti.

Ancelotti further set an example to emphasize that there are no issues mentioned by many people regarding Mbappe and other players.

He referred to Bellingham who also faced some criticism for his goal drought at the start of the season.

However, the Briton has now scored in his last three La Liga games against Osasuna, Leganes, and Getafe.

According to Ancelotti, goals are not the focus, but how the players have worked together well and have strong chemistry.

"The better dynamics in the team has allowed (Bellingham) to score again,"

"The Jude match is always good. Now he is more clinical. We are better at possession, with more clarity."

"Improving individual players like Mbappe opened up space in the final third and Jude has taken advantage of it. His position has not changed," said Ancelotti.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid will travel to Athletic Bilbao headquarters on Thursday, December 5, 2024.

Los Blancos need three points to stay close to Barcelona at the top of the standings. Currently, Real Madrid have 33 points and are only one point away from the Blaugrana.