Same goal tally as Ronaldo! Why Mbappe faces 'strange' criticism at Real Madrid

Kylian Mbappe's start at Real Madrid has been statistically remarkable, with the forward matching the 86 goals in 103 appearances that Cristiano Ronaldo recorded following his own move to the Santiago Bernabeu in 2009. Despite this, Mbappe continues to face scrutiny.

Former Madrid star Steve McManaman has described the criticism as "strange," noting that the issue lies not in the talent of players like Mbappe or Vinicius Junior, but in the lack of collective silverware. The two superstars are individually dominant, yet the team has struggled to secure major honors while Barcelona remains competitive.

Individually when they're suspended or one's injured or one's off the field, both of them are the kings of the jungle. But when they're together, what has shown over the last couple of years is that they haven't won anything. Steve McManaman

At Real Madrid, the culture dictates that anything short of victory is viewed as a disaster. With Barcelona strengthening their squad, including the signing of Rodri, the pressure on the club has intensified. Jose Mourinho has been brought in with a clear mandate: to control the dressing room, manage egos, and ultimately deliver titles to satisfy the demanding fanbase.