France coach agrees with Ancelotti on ideal role for Real Madrid star – ‘His best position is…’ | OneFootball

France head coach Didier Deschamps has made it clear that Kylian Mbappe’s best position is as a centre forward, pointing to his outstanding goal-scoring record this season with Real Madrid under Carlo Ancelotti.

The statement comes ahead of France’s Nations League third-place playoff against Germany, as the manager gave his thoughts on the star striker’s role both for club and country.

“He is used to playing in that position and is very effective,” said Deschamps during the pre-match press conference.

“It’s no coincidence he finished as Europe’s top scorer; no one has scored more than him. He may not have [Olivier] Giroud’s record yet, but I believe his best position is up front as the number 9.”

Mbappe adjusting to his new role

Interestingly, Mbappe himself has started to come around to the idea of being a central striker, despite previously showing reluctance. “Being the number 9 for club and national team isn’t the same,” he admitted.

Kylian Mbappe scored 42 goals for Real Madrid. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

“But I think I’ve made progress. I’m starting to get used to the position. In football, everything is unpredictable, and now I’m a centre forward.”

In the past, the 26-year-old openly expressed frustration when asked to play centrally for France, while he operated more comfortably on the left flank at Paris Saint-Germain.

That wing role allowed him to cut in on his stronger right foot, a position he preferred. However, things have changed significantly since his move to Real Madrid.

Under Ancelotti in the 2024/25 season, Mbappe was consistently been used as a number 9, while Vinicius Jr. held the left-wing role.

The tactical adjustment appears to have suited him well, as his goal tally speaks for itself, and both the club and national team are beginning to benefit from his evolution.

Source: Mundo Deportivo