Kylian Mbappe faces three match ban after controversial comment to Pep Guardiola…

Kylian Mbappe has given his verdict on the new superhero-themed nickname that Real Madrid’s “Fantastic Four” forwards have earned.

WHAT HAPPENED?

World Cup winner Mbappe became the latest ‘Galactico’ at Santiago Bernabeu when completing a move from Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent in the summer of 2024. He took a while to settle in new surroundings, with the Frenchman now being asked to operate as a central striking No.9.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

He has, however, taken his goal tally for the season to 28 through 38 appearances after netting a stunning hat-trick against Manchester City in the second leg of their heavyweight Champions League knockout phase play-off – keeping the Blancos on course to defend their European crown.

DID YOU KNOW?

Mbappe is starring alongside Brazil internationals Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, while Jude Bellingham is another Ballon d’Or contender that possesses match-altering ability. When functioning at their best as a unit, said quartet can become almost unplayable.

WHAT KYLIAN MBAPPE SAID

They have been billed as the “Fantastic Four”, in a nod to the superhero team from Marvel comics, and Mbappe has told Movistar of that moniker: “We like it, yes. I think we are playing very well, we are playing better every day and with the sacrifice that the manager asks of us.”

WHAT NEXT?

Carlo Ancelotti gives his attacking unit the freedom to rotate as they see fit, with nobody restricted to one set position, despite having defined roles within the initial starting XI and tactical blueprint. The ability to mix things up keeps opponents on their toes and makes Real’s fabled foursome even more “fantastic”.