Kylian Mbappé has delivered solid results in his first season with Real Madrid, despite some early skepticism. As the club’s most high-profile signing in recent memory, the French superstar has faced immense pressure. However, in a recent interview, Mbappé revealed that his move to the Spanish capital was deeply personal—driven by his admiration for two football icons: Cristiano Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane.
Speaking with El Objetivo on La Sexta, the 25-year-old opened up about his emotional connection to Real Madrid and the legends who influenced his journey.
“It was because of Zidane. As a Frenchman, he’s an idol,” Mbappé shared. “I became a fan of Zizou when he signed with the Galácticos. This is the best club in the world—it has an aura that no other club has. Then Cristiano arrived, my other idol, and I followed every single match. Even if you’re not a Madrid fan, you watch their games. First it was a dream, then a goal… now it’s a reality.”
Mbappé also recalled his first encounter with Zidane during a trial visit to Real Madrid’s Valdebebas training complex. “I was 13 years old and didn’t speak Spanish. The only person I could talk to was Zidane. Spending a week there was unforgettable. I knew I would come back one day.”
Zinedine Zidane, Manager of Real Madrid looks on prior to the Liga match between Real Valladolid CF and Real Madrid CF
Chemistry with Vinícius Jr. and debunking ego rumors
The transition into Madrid’s locker room has been smoother than many anticipated. Rumors swirled around potential ego clashes with stars like Vinícius Jr., but Mbappé put those to rest, describing a healthy dynamic and budding friendship.
see also
Not Cristiano Ronaldo: Tottenham star Son Heung-Min names the greatest striker in the world
“My relationship with Vinícius is great,” he said. “It’s normal that people want to talk about us—we’re both high-profile—but I can’t imagine Madrid without him. I came here with the idea of playing alongside him.”
He also mentioned how warmly he was welcomed by the soccer squad. “I already knew the French players, and everyone else was sending me welcome messages. The locker room embraced me right away.”
Ancelotti’s leadership: a perfect fit
Mbappé offered high praise for Real Madrid’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, crediting the Italian tactician for fostering a balanced and winning environment. “He’s a bit of everything—father figure, boss, friend, coach,” Mbappé said. “He’s a legendary manager who has already made history here. It’s a blessing to have someone like him guiding us.”
As the season nears its decisive stretch, Mbappé seems fully bought into the Madrid project—not just for the trophies, but for the legacy he aims to build in the white shirt.
