Kylian Mbappe's name has been in the headlines at the start of the 24/25 season, as was always expected to be the case. Not many would have predicted the reason though. The Frenchman, who scored on his Real Madrid debut in the UEFA Super Cup, has yet to score or assist after playing three La Liga games.
Of course, most would say that it has just been three games. But when you are Real Madrid, every game is a must-win in the eyes of the fans. That's how high the standards are and Carlo Ancelotti's side have not met them so far this season, already falling four points behind FC Barcelona.
If Real Madrid are to succeed this season, Ancelotti will need to find a way to get the best out of Mbappe. And to be fair to the Italian coach, he does not seem worried about the Frenchman's slow start at all.
Ancelotti has seen it all and done it all in football. So, he is not one to panic. As reported by ESPN, he said in a press conference ahead of this weekend's game against Real Betis:
"[Mbappé] is playing very well even if he hasn't scored yet. His influence creates danger. Him settling in here is not a problem.
"For me [Vinícius and Mbappé] are teaming up well, the offensive work is being done very well. It hasn't been a problem because we've scored goals in every game.
"With time, they will team up better, not just Viní with Mbappé, but Mbappé with the midfielders as well. Offensively we don't have a problem. We haven't had it these years and we're not going to have it now that we have the best strikers in the world."
Real Madrid boss sends clear message about Kylian Mbappe
In the long run, there is nothing to be concerned about. Mbappe is still getting into good positions, he just has not scored yet. Rest assured, the goals will come. Players of his quality do not forget the way to the back of the net overnight.
Mbappe is just taking some time to settle into a new team, league and country. This is not EA FC. These are human beings. An adjustment period is only natural.
We should start seeing the best of Mbappe soon. It is only a matter of time. We have seen glimpses from time to time already. Patience is a virtue.