Kylian Mbappe might be the only bright spark in what has been a disappointing season for Real Madrid so far. The Frenchman is currently the top scorer in both La Liga and the Champions League.
Mbappe was also on the scoresheet in Real’s 2-0 win against Valencia. Alvaro Carreras opened the scoring with an incredible moment of individual brilliance, dribbling through the defence from the left flank to give Real the lead, before Mbappe slotted home a penalty to seal the win.
However, despite the victory, there were still many talking points surrounding Real’s performance, which did not look convincing enough against a side fighting relegation. Clearly, the players are not yet on the same wavelength, and this lack of chemistry is hurting the team.
Kylian Mbappe fumes with Madrid teammate
In fact, this was reiterated by Mbappe himself, who was clearly unhappy with Franco Mastantuono during the Valencia match after the Argentina international made a questionable decision.
Mbappe was seen pointing at Mastantuono and shouting, “Pass me the ball, give it to me,” after the young right winger chose to take a shot instead of passing to the Frenchman.
🚨 Kylian Mbappé to Franco Mastantuono against Valencia: "Pass me the ball, give it to me."
— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) February 9, 2026
Mastantuono chose to take a shot and Kylian was not happy. pic.twitter.com/4ggIAcnMfo
Mastantuono was among the new arrivals in last summer's transfer window. The Argentine got off to an impressive start under Xabi Alonso immediately after joining Real, but his form has died down a little lately.
Evidently, the 18-year-old needs to further develop and gain some experience before cementing his place as Real’s first-choice right-winger. His mistake against Valencia further points to that.
Real have relied heavily on bringing in promising youngsters rather than proven veterans in the past few years. While this policy has proven mostly effective, with the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo among the best in their respective positions, it certainly has its drawbacks. Real are starting to realise just that.
This recent incident will serve as a learning curve for Mastantuono, who is still a key part of the club's long-term plans, being the only left-footed natural right winger in the squad other than Brahim Diaz. The Argentine international should take Mbappe's frustration on board and continue improving.
As for Mbappe, he has to be a leader for Real in this tough time and maintain his incredible performances. The club returns to action on Saturday when they take on Real Sociedad, as the Los Blancos look to continue their winning form in La Liga.
