Mbappé in the Number 9 Role: Experiment Coming to an End?

According to L’Equipe, Luis Enrique is unlikely to continue with Kylian Mbappé in the center-forward position in 2024. Internally, some sources suggest that Mbappé’s role as a number 9 is not expected to continue beyond the winter break.

Mbappé is anticipated to return to his usual position as the second striker on the left, in either a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 formation, starting in January.

Why was Mbappé placed as a number 9 in the first place? According to L’Equipe, Luis Enrique’s decision to position him up front is driven by a defensive logic. Knowing that Mbappé isn’t particularly enthusiastic about defensive pressing, the Spanish coach believes that Mbappé would be less of a liability in terms of defensive duties in this position.

However, L’Equipe notes that Mbappé seems to be experiencing some discomfort since his repositioning in the center. Tension appears to be palpable between the player and his coach in recent days, with Mbappé reportedly feeling closer to Mauricio Pochettino than Luis Enrique.