Pedja Mijatovic, renowned for his significant contributions to Real Madrid’s illustrious history, particularly as a key figure in securing the club’s seventh Champions League title, recently shared his insights with Cadena Ser, a prominent Spanish radio station. In this conversation, he candidly addressed the ongoing challenges facing the current Real Madrid squad, shedding light on various aspects that may be hindering the team’s performance this season.

Assessing the Team’s Mental Resilience

“I perceive a squad that exhibits increased mental fragility. This season, the core issue stems from what was previously their greatest asset: mental fortitude. While the team possesses considerable footballing talent, they struggle to maintain their composure when they concede goals, a stark contrast to past seasons characterized by remarkable comebacks. This predicament appears to be rooted more in psychological challenges than in tactical or technical deficiencies.”

Identifying the Team’s Lack of Competitive Drive

“This current lineup seems to lack the insatiable hunger that drives success, primarily because they have already achieved everything possible in the sport. This prevailing sense of comfort has led to complacency, which can be detrimental in the competitive landscape of football. Unlike previous periods when the team thrived on ambition and urgency, this squad appears to be less engaged and passionate, a situation that must be addressed to reignite their competitive spirit.”

Understanding Kylian Mbappe’s Pressure and Expectations

“Kylian Mbappe is undoubtedly a player under immense pressure and burdened by the need to prove himself as a superstar. This overwhelming anxiety translates into significant stress during matches, impacting his performance. It may be beneficial for him to take a step back and observe the game from the bench for a few matches, allowing him to better grasp the team dynamics. He needs to acclimatize to the high expectations of Real Madrid, rather than expecting the team to conform to his style.”

Evaluating Carlo Ancelotti’s Leadership Approach

“My impression is that Carlo Ancelotti aims to maintain harmony among the squad, often prioritizing established players over younger talents who deserve their chance to shine. It might be beneficial for him to adopt a firmer stance; a bit of conflict or assertiveness could invigorate the team. We might need a more assertive version of Ancelotti, one who is willing to make tough decisions to motivate the players and provoke a strong response from the team, especially since the previous approach may not yield the desired results anymore.”