Kylian Mbappe has opened up about the “mental problems” that have seen him make a slow start to life at Real Madrid.
Big things were expected from Mbappe when he moved to the Bernabeu from Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer last summer.
But the France captain was not at his best early in the Spanish capital, scoring just three times in 11 appearances and conceding three penalties.
The 26-year-old has recently scored four times in his last three games for Real.
Ahead of Wednesday's Champions League game against Red Bull Salzburg, Mbappe said: “I believe it's a mental problem and that's something I understand that I have to work harder.
“I was thinking a lot about how to do it. Do you go into space? Going to Vini's (Vinicius Jr's) arena? I'm going to Rodrygo's area. Don't focus on your game when you're impressing.
“I'm fine physically and with the team, but I know I have to do more,” he said. This is the time to change the situation.
“I'm a player who always wants to do more. When you see that you don't do that, it hurts you.
“I couldn't have done it worse, so when you're at rock bottom (after missing out on Liverpool), you can climb up.”
Adding to the pressure on his shoulders since his move to Los Blancos, Mbappe said: “It's normal. People expect a lot from me.
“I don't take it personally; This is football. You have to stay calm and focused. I know things can change.”
Mbappe scored a stunning opener against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup earlier this month before their 5-2 defeat to their fierce rivals. Since then, the French forward has scored against Celta Vigo and added two goals against La Palmas at the weekend.
“I've been in good shape for a month, or a month and a half now,” Mbappe said.