Real Madrid was handed over to the Night of Hard Truths when Arsenal attacked the Champions League semifinals with a 5-1 aggregated victory-Bernaba was stunned and his star came forward.
The mood at the iconic stadium was already heavy and lacked the usual electricity of the Champions League. But things actually sour when Mbappe was replaced at 75. A minute – The quiet end of what was supposed to be his night.
MBAPPE settled for Brahim Diaz for ankle knocking, Mbappe rushed through the tunnel with a gentle spot consolation from Carlo Ancelotti. A moment later, part of the faithful Bernabu released its frustration – rejected their awning man.
But why? Was it a disappointment of an unsuccessful return? A cry of frustration focused on the face of the project? Or just a burden of expectations with a high sky?
Maybe it’s the inevitable weight of his own legend. Mbappe, perhaps unknowingly, was the victims of his idol standards – Cristian Ronaldo. It is incredible that Ronaldo’s debut number has already improved. Yet it is still not enough for many.
Numbers do not lie – but not always satisfy
Mbappe immediately lit up Madrid, but his impact was constantly growing. With 34 goals and 4 assists in 49 performances, he proved that his price and hype were not hollow.
Yet, the performance of large games carries another metric-one measured in moments, not statistics. Some say he has disappeared against Arsenal. But ask Manchester City – or Josko Gardiola – if they easily forget them and they will laugh at you. It wasn’t just mbappe underdelivering. It was a whole unit that did not reach.
One player does not define Real Madrid
Yes, Mbappe is a boy from the poster. But Real Madrid’s biggest triumphs never did not fit one player on the shoulders of one player. Not Ronaldo.
This club is built on heritage, yes, but most importantly on a collective spirit. Whether it was Ronaldo, Benzema, Modric or Rodrygo, Madrid’s biggest nights always came from shared faith – not a solo act.
Mbappe had Vinicius JR, Jude Bellingham, Modric and Rodrygo. Everyone tried to break the side of the arsenal that made their plan with clinical accuracy. So, to go MBAPPE – after all he did this season he felt hard and incorrect.
MBAPPE can – and certainly – will raise again. But nights like these are a reminder: the size is not built alone. Even the best needs the team behind them.
Published:
Debodinna Chakracorty
Published on:
17th April 2025
