Cristiano Ronaldo Sends Real Madrid Warning Over Kylian Mbappe

Cristiano Ronaldo Discusses Kylian Mbappe at Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo has shared his thoughts on Kylian Mbappe‘s early performances at Real Madrid, offering both praise and a warning to his former club. As the French forward finds his rhythm in La Liga, Ronaldo believes Mbappe has the potential to become a star for Los Blancos, but he also insists that the 26-year-old must adapt to his new role as a striker to maximize his impact.

Kylian Mbappe’s Transition to Real Madrid

The summer of 2024 saw Kylian Mbappe complete one of the biggest transfers in football history, moving from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid. Despite being regarded as one of the best goal-scorers in the world, Mbappe initially struggled to find his footing at his new club. Many attributed his early struggles to the shift in his position—playing as a central striker instead of his preferred left-wing role.

Mbappe himself admitted that his penalty miss against Athletic Club in early December was a low point in his career. However, since then, he has turned things around, scoring five goals in three La Liga games in January and earning the La Liga Player of the Month award.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Advice for Mbappe

In an interview with El Chiringuito, Cristiano Ronaldo reflected on Mbappe’s adjustment period and compared it to his own early years at Real Madrid. Ronaldo acknowledged that the striker role is unfamiliar territory for Mbappe and emphasized that he needs time to grow into the position.

Ronaldo’s Words on Mbappe’s Striker Role

“The striker position makes it a bit difficult for Mbappe, because he doesn’t know how to play as a striker in my opinion… not that he doesn’t know, [but] it’s not his position.”

Ronaldo went on to say that if he were at Real Madrid, he would personally help Mbappe adapt to playing as a number nine:

“If I were at Real Madrid, I would teach him to play as a ‘nine’. Because I wasn’t a striker. I got used to playing as a striker. I played on the wing and people forget.”

This statement underscores Ronaldo’s own transformation from a winger to a goal-scoring forward, which ultimately helped him become one of the most prolific scorers in football history.

Mbappe’s Admiration for Ronaldo

Beyond his tactical analysis, Cristiano Ronaldo also shared his admiration for Mbappe, expressing that his respect for the Frenchman goes beyond knowing that Mbappe idolized him as a child.

“I love him very much, and not only because of the story he had as a young man that he loved Cristiano Ronaldo very much and he was his idol. But I really see him as a [star] and he is going to give Real Madrid a lot of joy.”

Mbappe has never hidden his admiration for Ronaldo, often citing him as one of his biggest inspirations growing up. Photos of a young Mbappe with posters of Ronaldo in his childhood room have circulated widely, further highlighting the connection between the two footballing superstars.

What Mbappe Needs to Succeed at Real Madrid

While Mbappe is undeniably talented, his success at Real Madrid will depend on how well he adapts to his new role. Unlike his PSG days, where he thrived by cutting in from the left flank, he is now expected to lead the attack centrally.

Several factors will determine whether Mbappe flourishes at Real Madrid:

• Tactical Adjustment – Learning to operate as a striker rather than a winger.
• Team Chemistry – Developing an understanding with Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham.
• Mental Resilience – Handling the pressure of being the club’s marquee signing.
• Consistency – Delivering in both La Liga and Champions League matches.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Mbappe at Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo’s words serve as both praise and guidance for Kylian Mbappe. While Mbappe has already started to shine at Real Madrid, Ronaldo believes he must evolve his playing style to truly reach his potential at the club. If he can successfully make the transition from winger to striker, Real Madrid fans could be witnessing the rise of their next all-time great.

With La Liga and Champions League glory on the horizon, the Mbappe era at Real Madrid is just beginning, and all eyes will be on the French superstar to see if he can live up to the expectations set by legends like Cristiano Ronaldo.