Real Madrid working to turn Kylian Mbappe into a 'free-kick specialist' with career-first strike against Leganes the result of 'over a month' of training

The France international has been a prolific presence throughout his career without taking on set-piece duties. He can be relied upon to confidently convert penalties, but often leaves efforts outside of the box to others.

That may be about to change, with Mbappe registering the first free-kick goal of his career when firing home for Madrid in their La Liga victory over Leganes. Questions have been asked of whether said effort counts as a free-kick goal as the ball was moved in order to provide a better angle.

Mbappe is taking it, though, and intends to become a serious threat from dead-ball situations in the weeks and months ahead. Plans are being drawn up at Santiago Bernabeu to aid that cause.

Journalist Jose Luis Sanchez has told El Chiringuito: “Within the Real Madrid staff, they want Mbappe to become a specialist in free kicks. That's why they've been working with him for over a month on this type of situation, with the good result he achieved against Leganes.”

Mbappe has hit 33 goals for Real during his debut campaign as a ‘Galactico’. There is the promise of plenty more to come as Carlo Ancelotti’s side continue to chase down La Liga, Copa del Rey and Champions League title glory.