Is Kylian Mbappé Facing El Clasico Dilemma?
Julien Laurens updates on Kylian Mbappé’s ankle injury sustained during international play with France.
In recent remarks, Kylian Mbappé acknowledged Cristian Ronaldo as “still number one” at Real Madrid. The French forward regards the legendary scorer as a “role model,” stating he has sought advice from the current Al Nassr star.
Ronaldo, who is one of Mbappé’s childhood heroes, netted 450 goals over nine seasons at Madrid from 2009 to 2018, claiming 16 titles including four Champions League trophies.
Determined to emulate Ronaldo’s success, Mbappé had an impressive debut season in 2024-25, scoring 44 goals, and he has already added 14 more this ongoing season.
“Cristiano has always been a role model for me,” Mbappé mentioned in an interview aired on Sunday. “I am fortunate to have discussions with him; he offers me guidance and support. In Madrid, he remains the top player. He serves as a point of reference for Real Madrid players, having achieved so much. Fans still dream about Cristiano; however, I aspire to carve my own path.”
Despite Mbappé’s stellar performance, Madrid finished last season without any major silverware. They currently lead La Liga after eight matches, holding a two-point margin over Barcelona, even after enduring a heavy 5-2 defeat against Atletico Madrid last month.
<p"They [Atletico] entered the derby with determination, and we did as well, but we lacked intensity in our duels and crosses," Mbappé stated on Sunday. "They prevailed in all the battles. It’s difficult to secure a win in such a scenario."
Mbappé contributed to France’s 3-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Azerbaijan on Friday, scoring a goal but leaving the match late due to an ankle issue, similar to one he endured with Madrid just a week earlier.
As France is among the favorites for the 2026 World Cup, Mbappé recognizes Spain as a formidable opponent.
“To me, Spain is currently the best team in Europe,” Mbappé, who won the World Cup in 2018 and was a runner-up in 2022, expressed. “However, a World Cup is a different challenge.”
Within Real Madrid, some observers have raised questions about the compatibility of Mbappé and his teammate Vinícius Júnior, both of whom prefer playing on the left flank.
“The notion of two star players on the same team generates headlines,” Mbappé responded regarding Vinícius. “But the reality is that my relationship with Vinícius is very strong. It has improved this year as we understand each other better.”
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