Kylian Mbappe angrily denied suggestions Real Madrid were too reliant on their goals after scoring four times in the 4-3 win at Olympiacos last night.
The French striker was at his best in Athens, combining superbly with Vinicius Jr to propel the visitors to a much-needed three Champions League points.
Mbappe has scored 22 goals in 18 games this season and has been a shining light in a season of inconsistent performances under Xabi Alonso.
Radio MARCA asked him if Madrid had a ‘Mbappedependencia’ and replied: “I think this question shows a lack of respect on your part and is a bad question. Everyone has their job in the team and my job, normally, is to score goals.
“Without the other players we don’t win the game. I don’t think there is any dependence or anything like that. It’s more a matter of journalists or outside people.”
No dependence on me – Mbappe
Mbappe has failed to score in Madrid’s last three games – a 1-0 defeat at Liverpool, a goalless draw at Rayo Vallecano and a 2-2 draw at Elche at the weekend – none of which ended in a victory.
When asked the question, Mbappé replied: “Yes, but we must not say that it is an addiction, we must say that Kylian is one of those responsible because we did not win and because my job is to score goals… no addiction.
“That’s what needs to be said. It needs to be said that Kylian didn’t score and that Kylian must score.”
Madrid wins but problems remain
The victory was a relief for Alonso but Madrid were far from perfect. A makeshift defense looked particularly suspect and gave the home team far too much space.
“I want to value the most important thing, the three points; essential not only for the classification, but to break a little the dynamic of three games without winning, because we did not feel good,” said the Madrid coach.
“The game had all kinds of moments.”
Asked if the victory had eased the pressure on his shoulders, Alonso replied: “Not really. I take things a lot calmer than you think.”
