Following his presentation at Real Madrid, comparisons between Kylian Mbappe and his idol Cristiano Ronaldo have intensified, highlighting their similar paths and potential impact at the club.
As Kylian Mbappe donned the iconic white jersey of Real Madrid for the first time, comparisons to his childhood idol Cristiano Ronaldo were inevitable.
Both superstars made their way to the Spanish capital amid great fanfare, but how does Mbappe’s arrival stack up against Ronaldo’s legendary tenure?
Mbappe vs Ronaldo – Age and Experience
Mbappe joins Real Madrid at 25, already a World Cup winner and with a trophy cabinet that would make most veterans envious.
Ronaldo, who underwhelmed at the EURO 2024, was a year younger, at 24, when he arrived in 2009, having already claimed a Ballon d’Or with Manchester United.
Both players entered Madrid in their prime, ready to elevate their game further in Real’s legendary all-white attire.
Transfer Fee
While Mbappe arrived on a free transfer after his contract with PSG expired, his signing bonus and wages make this one of the most expensive deals in football history.
Ronaldo’s €94 million transfer fee in 2009 was a world record at the time he swapped Old Trafford for the Santiago Bernabeu.
In comparison, you can see that both transfers cost Los Blancos fortunes in transfer fees and wages.
Goals and Expectations
Ronaldo’s Madrid career yielded an astounding 450 goals in 438 appearances. Mbappé arrives with the weight of similar expectations, having scored 255 goals in 305 games for PSG.
The Frenchman’s ability to meet or exceed Ronaldo’s goal-scoring feats will be closely watched given suggestions that he seems to be past his best.
Mbappe struggled to make a meaningful impact at the just concluded European Championship won by Spain. But this move is seen as a chance for him to change narratives.
Leadership and Attitude
During his presentation, Mbappé showed humility and respect for his new teammates, particularly in his comments about Luka Modrić and the number 10 jersey.
This mature approach echoes Ronaldo’s professional attitude upon his arrival, though CR7 was more outspoken about his ambitions.
Also, the talented forward did not waste time to emulate his idols with the famous ‘Hala Madrid’ chant and Ronaldo’s famous gesticulations during his presentation.
Champions League Ambitions
Ronaldo was instrumental in Real Madrid’s four Champions League titles in five years after his move from United.
Mbappé, still seeking his first Champions League trophy, will be eager to emulate Ronaldo’s European success with Los Blancos.
His seven years in Paris, while they produced goals and titles, he came short in the continent despite playing under Carlo Ancelotti, who he has now reunited with in Spain.
Marketing Impact
Both players brought immense marketing value to Real Madrid. Ronaldo’s signing led to record shirt sales and global brand growth.
Early indicators suggest Mbappé’s impact could be similarly substantial in the modern digital era.
Style of Play
While both are prolific goalscorers, Mbappé’s game is built more on pace compared to Ronaldo, who arrived as a dribbling sensation with aerial prowess and shooting ability.
How Mbappé adapts his game to La Liga will be crucial to his success as Ronaldo had to adapt to become a club legend..
Legacy Building
Ronaldo left Madrid as their all-time top scorer and a club legend. Mbappé has the opportunity to create his own legacy, potentially becoming the face of Real Madrid for the next decade.
As Mbappé begins his Real Madrid journey, the ghost of his idol Ronaldo’s achievements looms large.
While comparisons are natural, Mbappé will be focused on carving out his unique place in the club’s storied history.
Only time will tell if he can match or surpass the incredible impact of his idol at the Santiago Bernabéu. But he is super excited that he finally has followed in his footsteps to actualise his boyhood dream.
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