Former Real Madrid star talks Mbappe, Vinicius, Kroos, Bellingham, derby – ‘Ancelotti’s team will win’

Former Real Madrid forward Ivan Zamorano recently shared his thoughts on Carlo Ancelotti, praising the coach for his exceptional qualities.

According to Zamorano, Ancelotti is not only a remarkable coach but also a great person. He highlighted Ancelotti’s intelligence, which is complemented by his vast experience and his ability to manage the complexities of Real Madrid’s dressing room.

“I find him exceptional, not only as a coach but as a person,” he began by saying.

“He has great intelligence, enhanced by his personality and his experience in knowing how to manage a complex dressing room like that of Real Madrid and knowing the best solutions when the team needs them. 

“In addition, I would like to pay tribute to the character of his son Davide, who seems to me to be undervalued and who plays a very important role in the management of the team.”

In an interview with AS, Zamorano touched upon various subjects, including Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr., providing insights into their compatibility and Real Madrid’s current state.

Thoughts on Mbappe

Discussing Mbappe’s role in the team, Zamorano noted that Ancelotti places the Frenchman in the number 9 position, often rotating with Vinicius and Rodrygo when all three are on the field.

Despite Mbappe not being a natural number 9, Zamorano believes that, like Cristiano Ronaldo, he will eventually settle into the role.

While answering if he thinks Mbappe is compatible with Vinicius, he said, “Of course. Great players can always play together. I played with Marcelo Salas in the Chilean national team and we were very similar. 

“It is true that Mbappe is not a 9, but he will end up becoming one, as happened to Cristiano.”

Toni Kroos retirement

The conversation also moved to Toni Kroos and his influence on the team. Zamorano acknowledged that Kroos’ absence is definitely felt, but he stressed the importance of moving forward rather than dwelling on the past.

“Of course [Kroos’ absence affects], but the idea is not to think about Kroos and regret his departure, but to re-adapt and move forward. His legacy is incredible, but the less we talk about him, the better for Madrid.”

He also expressed surprise at Kroos’ departure, particularly noting that Kroos’ value seems to be more appreciated now that he’s gone.

“I am surprised a lot. But what strikes me most is that he is now important when he is no longer around. Kroos is irreplaceable, but let’s not forget that in his day he was criticised on more than one occasion, which raised questions about his physical condition.”

Turning to Real Madrid’s start to the season, Zamorano observed that the team hasn’t quite played at the level fans expect. While there have been some strong moments, the overall consistency has been lacking.

“They are not playing as we are used to, they have only had moments, some very good ones, but I am sure that when they put the pieces together because there is a new player in Mbappe.

“They will play at the pace expected of Madrid, champions of the League and the Champions League,” he said.

Thoughts on Vinicius Jr.

When asked about Vinicius Jr.’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or, Zamorano was clear in his support. He sees the Brazilian as one of the top contenders, alongside Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal.

“For me, he is one of the big candidates along with Bellingham and of course Carvajal. Dani is the real leader of the team and I am amazed by the things he does.

“For this reason and because he has won everything this year, I think he should be a candidate like the others or more.”

Regarding Vinicius’ personal challenges, particularly with the controversies he has faced in Spain, Zamorano acknowledged that these issues might have affected his performance.

However, he believes that the 24-year-old will eventually learn to focus less on external distractions and more on his football.

“Well, I don’t know. It’s true that when all this happens to him it bothers him, but he has to understand that he is a key player at Real Madrid and I’m convinced that there will come a time when he won’t give him so much importance. 

“The more he focuses on what makes the difference at Madrid, the better things will be for him and the team,” he noted.

Lastly, he also gave his prediction for the Madrid derby, stating, “It will be an attractive and very competitive derby, as always, despite the big loss of Mbappe.

“Atletico won last year, but I think Ancelotti’s team will win this time 1-2, thanks to goals from Bellingham and Rodrygo.”