Cristiano Ronaldo has left an indelible mark on Real Madrid’s history like no other player. His nine years leading the Madrid attack were synonymous with records, Ballons d’Or, and countless titles. Today, as Kylian Mbappé seems destined to make his own mark at the capital club, a crucial question arises: Can the Frenchman match the colossal legacy left by his idol, CR7?
From 2009 to 2018, Cristiano Ronaldo transformed Real Madrid into a winning machine. In 438 matches, he scored 450 goals and, most notably, won four Champions League titles and as many Ballons d’Or. The Portuguese superstar wasn’t just an exceptional goal scorer. He was a leader, a global icon, and the face of Madrid’s success.
His impact goes beyond the numbers. Madrid fans still remember his magical Champions League nights, his hat-tricks against formidable opponents, and his steely mentality in decisive moments. Seeing a Real Madrid player ever come close to his legacy seemed unlikely. But since Kylian Mbappé’s arrival at the Bernabéu, hope has been rekindled among some supporters. However, for the Bondy native, the challenge is immense. Not only must he meet sky-high expectations, but he must also do so at a club where the demands are absolute, especially in the Champions League.
Kylian Mbappé, a potential to unlock at Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappé is one of the brightest talents of his generation. At just 26 years old, he has already won a World Cup, multiple Ligue 1 top scorer awards, and a Champions League title. Over seven years at Paris Saint-Germain, he established himself as a key player. His speed, football intelligence, and composure in front of goal make him a fearsome attacker.
However, becoming the iconic figure of Real Madrid requires more than raw talent. It demands shining in crucial moments, carrying the team in major competitions, and maintaining unwavering consistency. Cristiano Ronaldo excelled in these aspects, setting the bar incredibly high. But Mbappé’s start to the season hasn’t been without criticism. The Frenchman is constantly scrutinized for his performances, and according to figures like Karim Benzema, he may struggle to adapt to the center-forward role, which isn’t his preferred position. Even as he gradually regains his form, Mbappé hasn’t yet single-handedly carried Real Madrid to victory.
“Kylian Mbappé cannot match Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy at Real Madrid”
At Real Madrid, Kylian Mbappé coexists with talents like Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham. These young stars have already shown their ability to take on responsibilities. Vinicius, for example, has established himself as a formidable winger, while Bellingham shines in midfield with performances worthy of the greatest. For Mbappé, asserting himself as the leader of this generation won’t be easy, as Boris Adakanou, a renowned journalist from our editorial team, explains.
“Kylian Mbappé has all the tools to become a Real Madrid legend, but thinking he could match Cristiano is impossible for me. At 26, he’s arrived in a team that already boasts world-renowned players like Vinícius and Jude Bellingham, who are also fighting to make their mark on the club’s history. Even if it’s not openly declared, there’s competition among the stars of Madrid’s current attack. In this context, it will be very difficult for Mbappé to enjoy the same level of attention and preferential treatment that Ronaldo had in his time,” he stated.
For Adakanou, the fact that Mbappé is sharing penalty duties with Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham is telling. “You’re well aware that Cristiano was the undisputed leader, with Benzema and Bale serving him. Today, Mbappé is forced to share penalties and free kicks with other key attackers, which prevents him from standing out. If at 26 he’s at this level, I don’t see when he’ll have that privilege. Cristiano was in a unique situation, just like Messi at Barça. It’s very difficult, if not impossible, to see a player of this generation enjoy the same advantages,” he added.
Edouard Agbetou shares the same opinion. While he acknowledges Kylian Mbappé’s immense talent, he believes that at 26, the French captain is already behind Cristiano Ronaldo in every aspect. “Personally, my answer is a straightforward no. Cristiano Ronaldo is one of a kind, and for Kylian Mbappé to surpass him one day, he’d need to start scoring two goals per game. Sure, he’s just arrived, but at Real Madrid, no one cares about what you did yesterday—only what you’re doing now, in every match. His speed, technique, and goal-scoring ability make him an exceptional player. But let’s not forget, Cristiano Ronaldo is a five-time Ballon d’Or winner and scored 450 goals in 438 matches for Real. Please, that’s a colossal challenge. Kylian lacks the consistency, longevity, and ability to shine in big moments, especially in the Champions League,” he stated bluntly.
The immense pressure on Kylian Mbappé’s shoulders
The Champions League has always been Cristiano Ronaldo’s playground. With 105 goals for Real Madrid in the competition, the Portuguese legend wrote some of the most memorable chapters in the club’s history. For Mbappé, excelling in the Champions League will be essential. It’s in this competition that legends are made. A series of decisive performances could quickly make him a fan favorite and solidify his status as a superstar.
At Real Madrid, Mbappé is undoubtedly embracing constant pressure. His performances are scrutinized, and every mistake is amplified. Cristiano Ronaldo thrived under this pressure, turning it into motivation to reach new heights. The French forward will need to prove he can handle this pressure. His ability to manage expectations, stay focused on his goals, and perform under the spotlight will determine whether he can one day match Ronaldo’s legacy.
Mbappé must also understand that Real Madrid isn’t just a club—it’s an institution where only the best thrive. Becoming the centerpiece of Madrid’s attack won’t happen without sacrifices and constant effort. If Kylian embraces this challenge and stays focused on his goals, he could become a Real Madrid legend in his own right. But for now, the road ahead is still long.
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