Ancelotti says Mbappe's inconsistency is 'normal'

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has downplayed concerns over Kylian Mbappe's recent form, describing the French forward's "ups and downs" as a natural part of a demanding season and a characteristic of players with exceptional talent.

Mbappe, 26, struggled in Madrid's 2-1 Champions League win over Atletico Madrid and in their previous La Liga defeat to Real Betis, despite netting a hat-trick against Manchester City just days earlier.

Ancelotti, speaking ahead of Madrid's La Liga clash with Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, said: "Against City, he scored three, and against Atletico, he did not score.

"I think on a general level he is doing very well, and we are very happy with him. We understand — and he understands — that he is not always at his best level.

"The game against Atletico was not the best version of him."

The Italian manager suggested that inconsistency is common in top-quality players. "In such a demanding season, it is quite normal, especially in a player with such quality," he said.

"Players with quality have more ups and downs because it is something genetic. Those with great quality often find it harder to maintain consistency, and that is what happened to him in that game.

"That said, he is doing very well, and if we are in the Champions League last 16, it is because he scored four goals in the previous tie."

Mbappe joined Real Madrid last summer from Paris Saint-Germain and initially found it difficult to adapt. However, he burst into form and has since scored 28 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions.

The Frenchman was instrumental in Madrid's play-off win against Premier League champions Manchester City, netting four goals across the two legs as Madrid progressed with a 6-3 aggregate victory.

However, his recent displays against Atletico and Betis have sparked concern among supporters.

Real Madrid sit third in La Liga, three points behind leaders Barcelona, who played against Osasuna on Saturday.

Madrid's preparations for the match against Rayo Vallecano may be hampered by the possible absence of Antonio Rudiger, with Spanish media reporting the centre-back is unwell.

Ancelotti expressed confidence ahead of the match, highlighting the team's improved readiness compared to the Betis game.

"I am much calmer ahead of tomorrow's game because we have had five days of rest," he said.

The return leg of the Champions League last-16 tie against Atletico Madrid will take place on Wednesday at the Metropolitano stadium.