Mbappe urges Real fans to support Vinicius amid team struggles

MADRID: Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has urged the club’s supporters to stand by Vinicius Junior, saying the team’s recent struggles are a collective responsibility and not the fault of any single player.

Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League match against Monaco, Mbappe said he understood fans’ frustration over recent performances but criticised the practice of singling out individual players. He stressed that the entire squad must take responsibility for the team’s inconsistent form.

Tensions have been running high at the Santiago Bernabeu following a difficult period for the Spanish giants, despite a recent 2-0 LaLiga win over Levante. During that match, Vinicius was booed by sections of the crowd, particularly during the announcement of the starting lineup.

Real Madrid have endured a turbulent month, including defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final and a shock Copa del Rey exit to second-division Albacete. The situation was further compounded by the dismissal of head coach Xabi Alonso, just seven months into his tenure.

Mbappe, who was seen consoling Vinicius before the Levante match, said the Brazilian winger must be supported, describing him as a world-class talent capable of changing games when playing with confidence.

Real Madrid now turn their focus to the Champions League, where victory against Monaco could help restore momentum and ease tensions among supporters as the club looks to stabilise its season.