Kylian Mbappé matched Cristiano Ronaldo’s Debut Season Goal Tally in March.
Coming in different eras to Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappé bear the same kind of expectations. One coming in as a record signing and Mbappe joining as a free agent, some would argue who among the both will be a great deal in Spain. Even though it takes players to settle in quickly, world-class players like Ronaldo and Mbappé could pick things up swiftly.
Having a stellar debut season at Real Madrid, Ronaldo announced himself in Spain loudly. On the other hand, Mbappé did something similar in 2024, so it is natural to draw comparisons between the two. By picking their scoring numbers and the impact in key games, one can get an overview of each player settled in life at a new club.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappé – Real Madrid Debut Season Comparison
Ronaldo came in as a record signing to Real Madrid in 2009. The Portuguese talisman went on to become one of the greatest players Real Madrid has ever seen. He announced himself to the Spanish League by scoring in his debut game for Real Madrid.
Scoring 26 goals in 29 La Liga matches, Ronaldo finished second behind Lionel Messi in the Pichichi Trophy (Given to La Liga’s Top-Scorer) list. The Portuguese produced several individual moments in his debut season at the Santiago Bernabeu. Along with a few long-range free-kicks, Ronaldo also displayed his dribbling abilities by scoring solo goals.
Despite his brilliance, Ronaldo and Real Madrid failed to lift a trophy in the 2009/10 season. Moreover, the Los Blancos were also shown the exit in the Round of 16 in the Champions League. Ronaldo finished his debut season at Real Madrid with 33 goals in 35 appearances.
Kylian Mbappé Could Write His History at Real Madrid
Arriving in 2024 from PSG, Mbappé had a stumbling start to his Real Madrid career. However, adapting to the new environment, the Frenchman has shut all the critics since the winter break. Moreover, Mbappé has matched Ronaldo’s debut season 33-goal tally in March with a significant amount of games to go.
While the youngster idolises Ronaldo since a young age, he has always expressed his admiration. Talking after the match day he equalled Ronaldo’s 33-goal tally, Mbappe told Real Madrid TV–
“It’s very special, to have the same number of goals as Cristiano is always good, We know what he means for Real Madrid and me, we speak, he gives me a lot of advice, and he scored many goals – but we have to win trophies here.”
Scoring 22 goals in 27 appearances for Real Madrid in La Liga, Mbappé is a contender for the Pichichi Trophy. Being three goals behind Robert Lewandowski, the 26-year-old has scored seven goals since February. With nine games to go, Mbappé will be keen to increase his goal tally.
Real Madrid before the arrival of Mbappé was still second to none. With the addition of the striker, Carlo Ancelotti and his side are contenders for multiple trophies. Being three points behind league leaders Barcelona, Mbappé and Madrid can still hope to turn the tides around.
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It would be worth noticing that Ronaldo arrived at Madrid as a pillar to the stumbling house of Real Madrid. Not only did he manage to help build the empire back again, but Ronaldo also left with several all-time Real Madrid records. His legacy at the Spanish capital could be unmatched for a long time.
Mbappé, who has shown promise straight from the debut season, will still have a lot to prove. Having a chance to earn some individual as well as major trophies, adding silverware in his first season would be a great start. Moreover, if Real Madrid go on to win multiple trophies, the Frenchman could also strive for Ballon d’Or 2025.