Ancelotti confident that Kylian Mbappe stays driven despite recent challenges

Real Madrid's head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, acknowledged that his struggling French forward, Kylian Mbappe, is feeling as disheartened as the rest of the team following recent challenges, yet he remains determined ahead of the upcoming Liga match against Osasuna on Saturday.

Currently embroiled in a sexual assault investigation in Sweden and facing difficulties in adapting to the high expectations at Real Madrid, Mbappe was notably excluded from France's squad by coach Didier Deschamps for the forthcoming Nations League fixtures.

"Mbappe is feeling low but not defeated," Ancelotti remarked regarding his performance, emphasizing that the 25-year-old continues to be "motivated."

The European champions recently suffered a significant 4-0 defeat to their rivals Barcelona at the end of October and now find themselves nine points adrift of their arch-rivals in La Liga.

Additionally, they experienced a second consecutive home loss on Tuesday, with AC Milan securing a 3-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu.

While Mbappe has not been performing at his peak, the Italian manager refrained from placing the blame solely on him.

"The challenges he faces are shared by the entire team. We have yet to find our rhythm. However, I am confident that Mbappe will overcome this challenging period," he stated.

"One could also highlight Vinicius (Junior), Rodrygo, or (Jude) Bellingham. This is a tough time for all of us.

"It is essential to maintain a positive mindset and keep your head held high."

Ancelotti, however, chose not to comment on Mbappe's consecutive exclusion from the World Cup finalists' roster.

"That is a decision made by the national team coach, and I do not have the authority to critique it. I refrain from doing so," Ancelotti added.

France is scheduled to face Israel at the Stade de France on November 14th, followed by a match against Italy in Milan three days later.