Kylian Mbappe made notable remarks during his press conference unveiling at Real Madrid.
Reporter: “How has Ronaldo influenced you? Do you draw inspiration from him?”
Mbappe: “Ronaldo has always been my idol. I am fortunate that he is now a friend of mine. We have a good relationship and he gives me a lot of advice. Ronaldo told me to work hard, to maintain my passion for football. I know he struggled in the recent EURO, but we embraced each other.”
Reporter: “Did you come to Real Madrid for the Champions League and Ballon d’Or?”
Mbappe: “There’s no better place than Real Madrid to win titles. But the key is to adapt well. If I can do that, the rest will come naturally. Winning everything is the goal, but that’s long-term. For now, I want to get back to training and adapt to the team.”
Reporter: “Do you have any personal goals or honors? Do you think you can win the Champions League?”
Mbappe: “My goal is no different from Real Madrid’s goal: to win every trophy. The club has achieved that without me, but I hope we can do it together. Setting limits is a mistake. There’s no need to limit myself. If I need to score goals, I’ll do that; if I need to assist, even better. This is the best club in the world. Real Madrid is always a strong contender for the Champions League.”
Reporter: “What do you share about the efforts to join Real Madrid?”
Mbappe: “I feel rewarded. It’s been my dream since I was a child, and I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. Now my dream has become reality. You don’t pay for dreams. My dream was to become a Real Madrid player, and now I’ve succeeded. It’s a great joy for me and my family. They know the efforts I’ve put in to get here. I’m very happy.”
Reporter: “When did you decide to sign with Real Madrid?”
Mbappe: “Since I was a child. The decision was very easy. First, it was my dream, and then it became a goal. I knew my destiny was to play for Madrid, and that day would come someday. Now I’m lucky that day has arrived.”
Reporter: “What are your ambitions coming to Real Madrid? What happened two years ago?”
Mbappe: “I came with humility because this is the best club in the world, but I also came with ambition. Those are the values for the club. But the priority now is to adapt to the team, to the collective. Once that happens, everything will be easier.
I almost joined Real Madrid in 2022, and also in 2021. But now I don’t think about the past anymore. A lot has happened, and I only think about the present and the future.”
Reporter: “Where do you feel most comfortable in the attacking line?”
Mbappe: “Any position the coach wants. I can play in three positions in the attack. I’ve done that at PSG, Monaco, and the French national team. It’s a detail the press is interested in, but for me, it’s not worth discussing. I don’t care where I play. What I want is to contribute to Real Madrid.”
Reporter: “Do you want to play with anyone in particular? Have you spoken to Coach Ancelotti?”
Mbappe: “I spoke with the coach this morning at the Valdebebas training center, but nothing tactical. I really look forward to playing with players like Vinicius, Bellingham… They are great players, like others at Real Madrid. I met some teammates this morning, and I’m very happy to become a Real Madrid player.”
Reporter: “Was there ever a moment when you thought you wouldn’t come to Real Madrid?”
Mbappe: “No, I was sure the time would come. I received many offers from other clubs, but I always refused. When I left PSG, I would come to Real Madrid. It’s very clear in my mind. Many things can happen in football, but this is very clear to me.”
Reporter: “How is your physical condition right now?”
Mbappe: “I’m ready to step onto the field. The club will provide more information in the coming days. When I return for preseason, I’ll be ready to help the team.”
Reporter: “Are you scheduled for nose surgery? Will you play in the Super Cup?”
Mbappe: “I talked with the club’s medical team this morning, and we’ll wait for the results. Then I’ll know what to do. I’m sure I’ll play in the European Super Cup, but it depends on the coach. I’ll be ready. That would be my first title, and I want to play. But that question is for the coach (laughs).”
Reporter: “Which Real Madrid player has pulled you the most?”
Mbappe: “The French players at Real Madrid have told me that a lot. Vinicius even texted me, ‘Come to Real Madrid, we’ll score goals together.’ I don’t need those messages to know it’s the best team in the world, but it’s nice to feel loved.”
This translation captures Mbappe’s sentiments during his introductory press conference at Real Madrid, showcasing his admiration for Ronaldo, ambitions with the club, and personal reflections on his journey to joining the Spanish giants.
