Carlo Ancelotti praised Kylian Mbappe as the “best centre-forward in the world” after the France captain scored twice in Real Madrid’s 4-1 win over Las Palmas this afternoon.
Mbappe played predominantly on the left side of a three-man attack at his former club Paris Saint-Germain, but had to get used to a new role in Spain.
He hasn’t always looked entirely comfortable but Ancelotti believes he is now at his best after his brace today secured four goals in three games.
9️⃣ @KMbappe 9️⃣ #LaLigaHighlights | #RealMadridLasPalmas pic.twitter.com/gQ9DWSSQky
— Real Madrid CF 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) January 19, 2025
The Italian said: “He is the best center forward in the world. There were doubts whether he could play there or whether he would be better on the left side. He is a great striker, he is very good in the middle, even more so than on the wing, his running style is unique and he can exploit it better inside.”
Madrid goes to the top
The win leaves Madrid two points clear at the top of La Liga, but it wasn’t easy as Las Palmas took a surprise lead through Fabio Silva in the first minute.
Mbappe equalized from the penalty spot after Sandro Ramirez was awarded a foul on Rodrygo.
Brahim Diaz gave the home team the lead before Mbappé made it 3-1 with his twelfth goal of the season. Rodrygo added a fourth goal 12 minutes into the second half and Las Palmas ran out of steam long before Benito Ramirez was sent off for a bad foul on Lucas Vazquez.
The final result could have been much clearer, with Madrid having three goals ruled out for offside and Jude Bellingham wasting numerous chances.
A difficult week, admits Ancelotti
It was a good end to a week that began with a 5-2 win over Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup and included a 5-2 extra-time Copa del Rey win over Celta Vigo in midweek.
Ancelotti added: “It was a difficult week, like any other week when you get hit. Of course, if you lose the Clásico it is more difficult, but in difficult times you can only get through if you are self-critical and positive.
“We are able to find a balance between good and difficult moments. I think the criticism at Madrid is harsher than at other teams, yes. There is criticism and there is criticism, the whistles are criticisms that hurt, it is the fans who are not happy and that motivates. It’s a wake-up call.”
A good day for Madrid was made even sweeter by the return of defender David Alaba after 399 days out due to injury. The Austrian Alaba came on as a substitute for Antonio Rüdiger in the last 14 minutes.
