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Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé opened up about his inspirations in a candid interview with Movistar’s Universo Valdano on Saturday, declaring Cristiano Ronaldo his enduring role model and the club’s top benchmark. The 26-year-old French forward, who joined Madrid this summer, revealed he stays in regular contact with the Portuguese icon for guidance as he adapts to life at the Santiago Bernabéu.
“Cristiano has always been a role model for me,” Mbappé told host Jorge Valdano. He credited Ronaldo’s unmatched work ethic—instilled in him during childhood—for shaping his drive, calling the five-time Ballon d’Or winner “number one” at Real Madrid despite his 2018 departure. Mbappé added that their conversations continue to provide invaluable advice, helping him navigate the pressures of leading Los Blancos’ attack in the 2025-26 La Liga campaign.
The praise extended to his time alongside Lionel Messi at Paris Saint-Germain from 2021 to 2023, which Mbappé described as an unexpected gift. “I have a great relationship with Messi. I never thought I would play with him,” he said, reflecting on the “special learning experience” of sharing a locker room with the Argentine legend. Mbappé called Messi a “very normal person” off the pitch, emphasizing how the duo’s partnership pushed him to elevate his game during those two seasons.
Fans and media quickly amplified the comments, with Argentine outlet Diario Olé highlighting Mbappé’s “flowers” to both Messi and Ronaldo, sparking discussions about the forward’s balanced admiration for soccer’s greatest rivals. The interview, aired amid Madrid’s strong start to the season, underscores Mbappé’s seamless integration, where he’s already notched five goals in eight appearances.
As debates rage over the GOAT conversation, Mbappé’s words bridge the divide, honoring both icons who defined his path. For more soccer updates and global trends, visit WebTopTrends.com.
