Real Madrid fans think they have worked out the 'real reason' behind Kylian Mbappe's struggles since his blockbuster arrival.
Mbappe has scored a respectable 11 goals across all competitions this season since his free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.
But his performances for Real have been largely underwhelming by his ultra-high standards.
Speaking to CLIQUE TV in a wide-ranging interview, Mbappe mentioned his love life as fans are convinced it is the reason behind his struggles.
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"I used to be in love with a woman, but not anymore," he revealed, before expressing his desire to experience love again: "I hope to be in love, again."
The 25-year-old added: "Can I have a love life? It takes an adaptation. It’s all about adaptation. You have to readjust your life to have something that everyone should have peace."
Fans on social media were quick to link his love life with his on-field showings for the Spanish giants.
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One X user wrote "That might be reason behind his downfall, he is lonely."
A second tweeted: "It was all about a woman while we thought it was Bernabeu’s pressure he couldn’t bear."
A third added: "So it was heartbreak that was his problem."
Another commented: "Oh so his poor performances are because of broken heart."
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Real enjoyed a stunning campaign last season, winning the La Liga title and the Champions League.
But Carlo Ancelotti's side are well off the pace this time around as they trail Barcelona in the league and have won just two of their opening five European fixtures.
And Mbappe acknowledges that the team and his individual performances have not reached the standards expected by the club and himself.
"The start to the season? It hasn't been the best start individually or collectively, but we're still here," he said. "We're still fighting for every title. But at Madrid, the most important part is the 2nd part of the season."
Topics: Fan Reactions, Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid, Football
Nasir Jabbar