Mourinho backs Mbappé: “A 40-goal player is never a problem”

José Mourinho has firmly backed Kylian Mbappé after the Real Madrid forward addressed criticism of his overall contribution to the team. The Portuguese coach did not rely on the striker’s scoring record alone, highlighting a specific defensive effort during the 2–1 Champions League victory over Inter.

MBAPPÉ RESPONDS TO HIS CRITICS

Speaking to France Football, Mbappé discussed the suggestion that a player can score regularly while still becoming a problem for his team.

The Frenchman rejected that argument, pointing out that football is ultimately decided by scoring more goals than the opposition. He also noted that teams do not win trophies without finding the net.

Mbappé did not dismiss every negative assessment of his performances. He drew a clear distinction between constructive observations and what he described as “more stupid” criticism. His point was not that he should be considered beyond scrutiny, but that goals cannot reasonably be presented as the source of a team’s difficulties.

MOURINHO DELIVERS A CLEAR VERDICT

Mourinho was asked about those comments during his press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s meeting with Rayo Vallecano. His response was immediate.

“He is right. A player who scores 40 goals is never a problem for the team,” the Real Madrid coach said.

Mourinho also returned to a Portuguese proverb about people throwing stones at trees bearing plenty of fruit. His message was that the most productive players naturally attract the greatest attention, including criticism that does not always reflect everything they contribute.

MORE THAN A GOALSCORER

The coach then referred to the closing stages of Real Madrid’s 2–1 win over Inter in the Champions League. With his side reduced to ten men, Mourinho saw an exhausted Mbappé tracking back and defending on the left.

That detail mattered to the Portuguese coach. Mbappé had already scored the opening goal, but when the circumstances changed, he accepted a different responsibility and worked to protect the result.

Mourinho acknowledged that Inter could have scored more than once. He also stressed that Real Madrid created enough chances to score far more themselves. It was a reminder that assessments of the performance should include both the defensive difficulties and the considerable attacking threat produced by his team.

THE COMPLETE PICTURE

Mourinho’s defence of Mbappé was not an exemption from tactical responsibility. It was praise for a forward who combined the most valuable attacking contribution — goals — with the willingness to help his teammates when the match demanded it.

Real Madrid expect their leading players to decide games, but also to respond when the team must suffer. Against Inter, Mbappé did both. That is why Mourinho sees him as a major solution rather than a problem.