'The problem that Kylian Mbappe has...' - Carlo Ancelotti diagnoses Real Madrid star's recent woes after penalty miss against Liverpool

Mbappe has faced criticism for his disappointing performances since joining Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain in a long-awaited free transfer in the summer. The 25-year-old was expected to lift a side that won La Liga and the Champions League last term, but some claim his presence has upset the team's rhythm and resulted in them struggling in both competitions this time around.

Mbappe being used as a centre-forward instead of his preferred position on the left of the attack has been suggested as a reason behind his underwhelming displays, while France coach Didier Deschamps said the national team captain could be struggling mentally. The attacker's situation was well summed up when he missed a second-half penalty during his side's 2-0 loss to Liverpool in the Champions League, not long after he was seen standing on his own in the players' tunnel.

However, Ancelotti insists Mbappe's struggles are no different from those of the rest of the team, as he told reporters: "The problem that Mbappe has is the problem that we all have. We are searching to find our best version. Me and my players. The problem is with the team not individual players, which has not managed to achieve continuity. We must do everything possible to improve, it is not an individual problem. Mbappe has scored nine goals, he has contributed to our play, given assists- He can play better, but we can all do it."

He added: "He is aware that he must do better, but he and everyone. We must continue to support him, to be patient and think that it is a collective problem but not an individual one. The dynamics of the team in La Liga have improved a lot in the last two games, it’s true we could have looked better against Liverpool. We must take into account that we there are many players missing. Bit by bit, they are recovering. Rodrygo returns tomorrow and we must be patient."

The attacker will hope to be back among the goals on Sunday when his side take on Getafe in La Liga.