Former Real Madrid striker Predrag Mijatović has criticised Kylian Mbappé, saying the forward must adjust his behaviour while also highlighting what he believes is a broader leadership issue within the team.
His comments follow Real Madrid’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals at the hands of Bayern Munich. The Spanish side were beaten 2-1 in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu before losing 4-3 in the return fixture at the Allianz Arena, ending their campaign despite competitive performances across both matches.
Mbappé scored in each leg of the tie, but his overall displays have come under scrutiny, with critics suggesting his contributions were not enough to alter the outcome of the contest.
“He has to change his behavior”
Mijatovic, speaking to Spanish media, made clear that while Mbappé is fulfilling part of his role, there are aspects of his approach that need improvement.
“Mbappe came here to score goals, and he is doing that. Vinicius has had good seasons and shines in big matches, although he was unlucky in the last match.”
He added: “He has to change his behavior, and I have said that repeatedly. I have been accused of harboring a grudge against this player, but there are things I don’t like. This does not diminish his importance to the team. Real Madrid lacks a leader on the field; the team’s top scorer is not always the leader.”
The former forward’s remarks suggest that scoring alone is insufficient to meet the expectations placed on a player at a club of Real Madrid’s stature.
Leadership vacuum highlighted
Mijatovic went on to stress that the team is missing a commanding presence capable of organising and motivating players during matches. Drawing comparisons with previous generations, he pointed to figures who combined technical ability with leadership.
“For example, Zidane was the best for a while, but the captain of France was Deschamps. Now we need Hierro, Ramos, Raul, someone who can play two or three roles on the field and bring everything together.”
He further underlined the need for a strong personality within the squad.
“We need a leader, a coach on the pitch. Real Madrid has excellent players, but I don’t see a personality who says, ‘What the hell are you doing?'”
Reaction to Bayern defeat
Despite the disappointment of elimination, Mijatovic expressed a degree of satisfaction with the team’s overall performance against Bayern Munich.
“Real Madrid played a very good match, it was like a rehearsal for the final, and I really liked the impression they left. This is the impression they should always give.”
However, he also criticised certain aspects of the match, including officiating and individual discipline.
“I was angry with the referee, and then also with Camavinga. UEFA referees don’t tolerate anything, and you have to stay very focused.”
Concerns over trophy drought
Mijatovic also highlighted a broader concern regarding the club’s recent lack of silverware, describing it as a serious issue given Real Madrid’s history.
“Two years have passed without Real Madrid winning any title, and this is very serious for them. That’s why they are the biggest club in the world; not winning anything is a failure.”
He acknowledged, however, that sustained success is difficult to maintain indefinitely.
“In football today, you can’t always win, and we Real Madrid fans are spoiled. Winning six Champions League titles in recent years is an achievement that will not be repeated. Now we have to rebuild the team to start winning again.”
A call for evolution at Madrid
Mijatovic’s comments reflect growing introspection at Real Madrid following their European exit. While individual quality remains evident, questions over leadership, mentality and cohesion persist. As the club looks ahead, the challenge will be not only to refine its tactical approach but also to rediscover the authority and presence that once defined its most successful eras.
