Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé has named the club’s former player Cristiano Ronaldo as his legend.
The France captain described the Portuguese legend as his biggest role model in football. He said that Ronaldo’s determination, hunger for success, and consistency at the highest level have been a source of inspiration since his childhood.
“Cristiano Ronaldo has always been my role model, an example for me. I am lucky to talk to him, he gives me advice, he helps me.. he’s number one. He is the reference of Real Madrid. People still dream and talk of Cristiano now.”
Mbappé often had posters of Ronaldo in his room and spent hours watching his goals, celebrations, and training clips trying to emulate the mindset of a player who dominated world football for nearly two decades.
The French superstar praised Ronaldo for showing that greatness comes from discipline and relentless work, not just natural talent. He credited the former Real Madrid icon for shaping how he approaches the game, noting that Ronaldo’s ability to reinvent himself across different leagues from Manchester United to Madrid, Juventus, and now Al Nassr.
Mbappé’s career mirrors many of Ronaldo’s qualities; explosive speed, clinical finishing, and a drive to be the best. Mbappé not only pays homage to one of football’s all-time greats but also reveals the foundation behind his own pursuit of greatness. It’s a reflection of how one generation’s legend can inspire the next to chase even higher standards in the beautiful game.