Kylian Mbappe has struggled to make the impact expected of him at Real Madrid

Michel Platini, one of the most iconic figures in French football history, has voiced concerns about Kylian Mbappe’s form, describing the Real Madrid star as “lost on the pitch.”

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The remarks come as the 25-year-old struggles to replicate his previous heights both for club and country, sparking debate about his future at Real Madrid.

Mbappe’s form raises alarms with Platini

Platini, a pivotal figure in France’s 1984 European Championship triumph, expressed unease over Mbappe’s recent performances during an interview, saying, “A great champion must be reborn from his ashes, systematically.”

Mbappe’s output this season has been inconsistent. While he has managed seven goals in 12 La Liga matches, his Champions League record of just one goal in five appearances has drawn scrutiny.

His most recent performance against Liverpool, where he missed a penalty in a 2-0 defeat, has raised questions about his suitability for Real Madrid.

On the international stage, Mbappe’s absence from the French squad in recent windows has also been a source of concern after manager Didier Deschamps opted to omit him, citing it as a move in the best interests of all parties.

Platini hopes for Mbappe resurgence

Additionally, off-the-field controversies have added to the pressure as in October, Swedish media reported allegations of misconduct against Mbappe, claims which his legal team firmly denied as baseless.

Despite the challenges, Platini remains hopeful that Mbappe’s current struggles will serve as a temporary setback rather than a defining period.

With Real Madrid central figure Vinicius Junior sidelined through injury, the onus is on Mbappe to lead the team in pursuit of their goals.

Fans will be hoping for Mbappe’s resurgence soon, starting with their LaLiga game against Getafe this weekend.

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong was nominated for the Defender of the Year in FIFA The Best.

William Troost-Ekong, captain of the Super Eagles, has continued to receive praise for the prestigious recognition from FIFA after being nominated for The Best Defender of the Year award. 

This accolade is a reward for his impressive performances both at club level and during international competitions, particularly his standout role in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023, where he not only scored three goals but also earned the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award.

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FIFA announces Paul Onuachu as a nominee for the Puskas Award.

The nomination has sparked celebrations among fans and fellow players, with former Hapoel Be’er Sheva midfielder John Ogu, who played alongside Troost-Ekong during Nigeria’s campaign in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the latest.

Ogu took to social media to express his pride in Troost-Ekong’s achievements, stating; “I’m really proud of @WTroostEkong.. Congratulations on your success brotherly. You deserve it all.” 

His comments reflect the sentiment shared by many who recognise Troost-Ekong’s contributions to Nigerian football.

In response to Ogu’s heartfelt message, Troost-Ekong expressed gratitude: “Thanks brother I appreciate you. Some amazing memories together big OGU 30.” 

Troost-Ekong’s nomination places him among a select group of elite defenders globally, as he competes for the title alongside prominent names such as Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba, Real Madrid’s duo of Antonio Rüdiger and Dani Carvajal, and Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan.

His recognition is a testament to his hard work and dedication throughout the year, especially during a remarkable AFCON campaign that saw Nigeria finish as runners-up.

Nigerians and most especially Super Eagles supporters eagerly await the announcement of the final winners at the FIFA Best Awards ceremony on December 10, 2024. 

But whatever the case, Troost-Ekong’s nomination alongside Ademola Lookman, nominated in the attacker’s category, serves as a proud moment for Nigerian football, showcasing the talent and potential within its ranks.

Super Eagles stars Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi could soon welcome a superstar name to the team

Former Liverpool forward Ryan Babel has advised Paul Pogba to take a less glamorous route back to top-flight football by joining Premier League side Fulham.

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The French World Cup winner is on the hunt for a fresh start after his Juventus contract was terminated following an 18-month ban for doping offences, reduced from an initial four years.

Pogba advised on next move

Babel believes Fulham offers Pogba an ideal setting to rebuild his career. Speaking to Instant Casino, the Dutchman weighed the benefits of playing in a less pressurised environment compared to Europe’s elite clubs like Manchester United or Juventus.

“I think Paul Pogba could be a good addition for a Premier League club,” Babel said. “I think he could deliver for teams like Fulham, the teams where the pressure is not as high as Man United.

“Not for the fact that he could not handle that pressure, but simply because I think there will be too much pressure on him.

“‘He’d be in the spotlight if he joined one of the top four teams. I think you know with all the trauma and things that he’s experienced, I think for him it would be good to join a team that doesn’t necessarily have the pressure to win the title.”

Pogba tipped to stand out and regain form

Fulham already boasts a solid foundation with Super Eagles stars Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, and adding Pogba could further bolster their ambitions.

According to Babel, “He [Pogba] could very quickly be one of the main stars and establish himself as a top-level player again. He would stand out in a team like that.”

Pogba has not played since his doping suspension and will only be eligible to return to competitive football in March 2025.

While his talent is undeniable, the 31-year-old faces a challenging path back to peak form after a lengthy layoff, but Babel believes that Pogba “has the talent to do it.”

Despite interest from top European clubs, MLS sides, and Saudi Arabian teams, with Fulham looking to strengthen their squad and Pogba searching for redemption, the move could be a win-win for both parties.