"They will have a problem there" - Barcelona president Joan Laporta's comments on Kylian Mbappe joining Real Madrid resurface as attacker struggles
Barcelona president Joan Laporta’s cautionary remarks about Kylian Mbappe’s arrival at Real Madrid have taken on new significance. The French superstar is facing criticism from all quarters for his underwhelming performances for Los Blancos.
Laporta had made the remark earlier this year before Mbappe’s much-anticipated move from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). He suggested the transfer could "distort" Madrid’s dressing room and hinted at potential positional and salary conflicts.
These predictions now echo louder as Mbappe's early months at the Santiago Bernabéu have been marked by inconsistency and frustration.
While speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Laporte said the Frenchman's signing could lead to disharmony within the club. He added it wouldn't be a "gift" for the Spanish giants.
The Barcelona chief also claimed he wasn't envious of Los Blancos' pursuit of the French forward.
"But I don't know if they will sign him or not. Let's see. [If they do] they will have a problem there. They will have to transfer a player, right? Because two players aren't going to play in the same position. And speaking about the numbers involved [in the deal], it's going to distort the dressing room for sure. It's not a gift," Laporte said.
Recent results and the Frenchman's form have reignited debates about the balance of the squad.
Kylian Mbappe struggles to hit the ground running at Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s marquee signing, Kylian Mbappe, was expected to revolutionize their attacking lineup after signing as a free agent this summer.
However, the 25-year-old has yet to live up to his immense reputation. In a high-stakes UEFA Champions League clash against Liverpool on Wednesday, November 27, Mbappe missed a crucial penalty and struggled to make an impact in a game Madrid lost 2-0.
Since his arrival, Mbappe has found himself under scrutiny, not only for his form but also for how his presence affects the established dynamics at Madrid.
With Vinicius Junior already thriving on the left wing, the Frenchman has had to adjust to a more central role or play from the right—positions that have yet to bring out the best in him.
Moreover, his substantial wages and the fanfare surrounding his transfer have sparked whispers about harmony within the dressing room, echoing Barcelona President Laporta’s early warnings.
The former PSG talisman has managed nine goals and two assists in 18 appearances across all competitions for Madrid, a stark contrast to his prolific output at PSG.
Critics have pointed to his seeming discomfort in his new role and a lack of chemistry with teammates as contributing factors. His penalty miss against Liverpool in Europe’s biggest stage has only added fuel to the fire.
