Carlo Ancelotti on Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe penalty debate – ‘We value that a lot here’

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has praised Kylian Mbappé’s decision to hand Sunday’s penalty to Jude Bellingham, following Mbappé’s own miss against Liverpool earlier in the week. While some viewed it as a sign of the Frenchman’s lack of confidence, Ancelotti saw it in a more positive light.

Mbappé faced criticism for the decision, with some pointing out that as a key player, he should take responsibility in such moments. However, Ancelotti offered a different perspective.

“Tomorrow, both players will decide. One of them will choose who is in the best position to take the penalty. This shouldn’t be a topic of debate, as there are two ways to interpret what happened against Getafe when Mbappé gave the penalty to Bellingham,” Ancelotti said.

“It could be seen as a sign of insecurity. Or, as we see it, it could be an altruistic and responsible act. This is something we highly value—Mbappé’s selflessness as a top talent is very important for us.”

Ancelotti also reflected on the team’s overall progress, despite facing challenges: “No one expects to win anything in December, but we must stay in the fight. Despite all the difficulties and the major emergency we’ve had, we are still in the race.”