Micah Richards warns Liverpool to change approach against Kylian Mbappe

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Kylian Mbappe is in exceptional form right now, and he doesn’t look like slowing down anytime soon.Liverpool’s slow start to the season has put them under a bit of pressure, but a recent win over Aston Villa should give them something to build on.Still, they’ll need to follow that up with another strong showing, though beating Real Madrid in the Champions League hasn’t exactly been something they’ve done often.Madrid are in good form as well, coming off five straight wins. Mbappe has been brilliant during that run too, scoring eight goals across those games.Liverpool’s defence has looked vulnerable lately and they may need to change their approach if they want to contain him.Mbappe’s pace is an issue for Liverpool’s defenceThere aren’t many players in world football who can match Kylian Mbappe for raw pace, and he has the finishing ability to go with it.He’s one of the best forwards in the game, and if Liverpool stick with their high line against him, they could find themselves in real trouble.Photo by David Ramos/Getty ImagesThe Reds haven’t found much success with their defensive shape this season, and coming up against a player like Mbappe may force them into a rethink.If not, Mbappe will use his strengths to get in behind time after time and punish Liverpool, wrapping the game up before it has basically even started.

This is something Micah Richards also references on The Rest Is Football Podcast, suggesting the Reds could be in danger if they are not careful.“I fear for Liverpool against Real Madrid. “He always likes to time his run right at the very edge, so if they give him space, he will punish you.”Liverpool don’t enjoy playing against sides who sit deep but Arne Slot may have no choice but to set up that way this week.Liverpool’s defence has to step upLooking at how both teams have been playing lately, there’s every chance Real Madrid could take control of this one.

Liverpool’s back line will need to be sharp.Virgil van Dijk has to set the tone at the back, and Ibrahima Konate must stay focused alongside him—especially if he views this match as a chance to impress ahead of the summer window.READ MORE: Rio Ferdinand dismisses talk of Ex-Man Utd target amid backing for Ruben AmorimThe full-backs are also going to have their hands full, given the threat from Madrid’s wide players. He’s usually reliable between the posts, but he’ll need to show that again in a game like this.