Introduction Kylian Mbappe’s long-anticipated move to Real Madrid has been one of the most talked-about transfers in recent football history. As he embarks on this new chapter, he has received invaluable advice from none other than Cristiano Ronaldo, a club legend and one of his childhood idols. Ronaldo, currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, shared his insights on Mbappe’s playing style, highlighting areas where the French forward could improve.
In This Article:
Mbappe’s Real Madrid Journey Begins
After years of speculation, Mbappe finally left Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer to join Real Madrid in the summer of 2024. With high expectations placed upon him, comparisons to Ronaldo have been inevitable. Photos of a young Mbappe with Ronaldo’s posters on his walls serve as a reminder of the deep admiration he has for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Take on Mbappe’s Playing Style
In a recent interview with El Chiringuito, Ronaldo expressed his appreciation for Mbappe’s talent and potential. “I love him very much,” Ronaldo stated. “Not only because he admired me as a youngster, but because he truly is a star player.”
Despite his admiration, Ronaldo also pointed out a crucial aspect of Mbappe’s game that needs refining—his positioning as a central striker. While head coach Carlo Ancelotti recently dubbed Mbappe the “best centre-forward in the world,” Ronaldo believes the Frenchman has room to grow in that role.
Mbappe’s Challenge as a Central Striker
Mbappe’s transition into the number 9 role at Real Madrid has been met with challenges. Unlike traditional centre-forwards, Mbappe has always thrived as a winger, utilizing his pace and dribbling ability to cut inside and create chances. However, playing centrally requires a different set of skills, including hold-up play, positioning, and finishing under pressure.
Ronaldo, who himself transitioned from a winger to a goal-scoring machine at Madrid, had this to say: “The striker position makes it a bit difficult for Mbappe because he doesn’t know how to play as a striker in my opinion. It’s not that he doesn’t know, it’s just not his natural position.”
Ronaldo’s Advice for Mbappe
Ronaldo reflected on his own evolution as a forward. “If I were at Real Madrid, I would teach him to play as a 9. I wasn’t a striker at first—I played on the wing, and people forget that. But I adapted.”
He suggested that Mbappe should follow a similar trajectory, rather than conforming to the role of a conventional number 9. “Kylian shouldn’t be your typical striker. If I were him, I would play more or less like how I played as a striker,” Ronaldo added.
What This Means for Real Madrid and Mbappe
For Real Madrid, ensuring Mbappe’s seamless adaptation to his new role is crucial. The club has historically relied on dominant centre-forwards, from Raul and Ronaldo Nazario to Karim Benzema. If Mbappe successfully integrates Ronaldo’s advice, he could unlock a new level in his game and further cement his status as a footballing great.
Furthermore, Ronaldo issued a message to Real Madrid fans: “Take care of the kid.” At just 26 years old, Mbappe has the potential to be the club’s next generational superstar.
Mbappe’s Future at Real Madrid
Mbappe has already shown flashes of brilliance at Madrid. His performances in the 2024-25 season have included match-winning displays, and he has played a key role in the team’s Champions League campaign. With Manchester City looming in the playoffs, his ability to rise to the occasion will be tested.
By embracing Ronaldo’s guidance and fine-tuning his approach to playing as a central striker, Mbappe can evolve into the all-around forward Real Madrid fans dream of. With the right mindset and coaching, he can redefine his legacy at the Bernabeu.
Conclusion
Cristiano Ronaldo’s advice to Kylian Mbappe is a testament to the Portuguese legend’s deep understanding of the game. While Mbappe is already an elite player, refining his skills as a striker could make him truly unstoppable. With Real Madrid’s support and Ronaldo’s wisdom in mind, the football world awaits the next chapter in Mbappe’s journey to greatness.
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