Real Madrid were doubtful about star attacker’s lack of ‘inner fire’; compared him to Ronaldo | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappe further consolidated himself as a real leader for the Real Madrid frontline with yet another solid performance against Villarreal.

In a match where Los Blancos struggled to impose themselves, the French superstar took center stage, ensuring his team reclaimed the top spot in La Liga, at least temporary.

Mbappe scored a stunning brace against Villarreal, thus taking his overall scoring tally to 20 goals in La Liga. With the Real Madrid dressing room reportedly frustrated with Vinicius Junior, Mbappe is slowly and steadily becoming the leader of the Real Madrid attack.

Real Madrid had doubts about Mbappe

Yet, at the start of the season, Madrid had their doubts about signing Kylian Mbappe.

According to Rodra P, some within Valdebebas questioned whether Mbappé had the ‘inner fire’ to dominate like Cristiano Ronaldo did.

Mbappe silenced critics with yet another stellar performance against Villarreal (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

While his talent was undeniable, there were concerns about his seemingly relaxed demeanor in both matches and training. Unlike Ronaldo, who thrived on adversity, Mbappe appeared unfazed whether things were going well or not.

Mbappe: A changed man?

However, recent weeks have revealed a different side of the Frenchman, who appears to have greatly changed his demeanor.

His aggressive leadership against Villarreal, his willingness to defend teammates like Jude Bellingham, and his fierce competitiveness in the Copa del Rey clash with Atletico Madrid have silenced those doubts.

From challenging referees to making last-ditch defensive efforts, Mbappe has embraced his role as Madrid’s talisman.

In a week where he made headlines for an unexpected training absence, Mbappe ended it by propelling Madrid to the Champions League quarterfinals and the summit of La Liga.