Some voices have complained a lack of physical work has hampered the team and that there is a lack of coordination within the staff. While the tensions already existed, The Athletic has learned the publication of that article led to even greater displeasure within the squad.

Barcelona have a six-point lead atop La Liga after a 4-0 win over Real Madrid and are ahead of schedule as Los Blancos stumble

Ancelotti must prove that these are teething problems and not an indication that Mbappe's presence has made the team unbalanced like Paris Saint-Germain so often did.