Doncic backs Mbappe to turn fortunes around at Real Madrid

NBA superstar Luka Doncic has backed Kylian Mbappe to 'figure it out' after his disappointing start at Real Madrid.

Mbappe has scored eight goals in 16 appearances for Madrid in all competitions since joining as a free agent following the expiry of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain.

He has gone four games without a goal – a run that included defeats against Barcelona and Milan – and has been left out of the France squad.

However, Dallas Mavericks guard Doncic – a Real Madrid supporter due to his previous ties to the sports club – sees Mbappe turning things around.

“Evidently [their season] it can be better,” Doncic told Managing Madrid on Saturday after the Mavericks' win over the San Antonio Spurs.

“But when you get a man like Mbappé, it takes some getting used to. We will figure it out.”

HALA MADRID!!!!

— Luka Doncic (@luka7doncic) October 22, 2024

Mbappe scored six goals in eleven LaLiga games for Madrid, but performed 2.04 short of his season's expected goals (xG).

The forward is averaging a goal every 166 minutes in all competitions this season, compared to one goal every 88 minutes for PSG in his last of seven seasons in Paris.

Madrid defeated Osasuna 4-0 last time out in the competition to return to victory but are still six points behind leaders Barcelona.

Asked about his connections with Madrid, former Los Blancos basketball player Doncic said: “I follow Real Madrid every time.

“I grew up there. They taught me everything, so it's part of my life. You can call it a second home.

“I learned a lot there and most importantly, they gave me the opportunity to be here now [in Dallas]. I always appreciate that one hundred percent.”

Madrid are back in action after the international break with an away trip to Leganes on Sunday.