The Real Madrid legend has some pointers for the apparent heir to his Los Blancos throne
Cristiano Ronaldo has shared his thoughts on Kylian Mbappe’s role at Real Madrid, expressing doubts about the French star’s ability to thrive as a centre-forward.
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While Mbappe has been in outstanding form for Los Blancos, Ronaldo believes that playing as a No. 9 is not his natural position and offered advice on how the Real Madrid man should evolve to maximise his impact at the Bernabeu.
Ronaldo believes Mbappe is not a natural striker
Speaking to El Chiringuito, Ronaldo acknowledged Mbappe’s immense talent but suggested that Real Madrid should rethink their approach to his positioning.
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The club’s record goalscorer said, “The forward position makes it a bit complicated for Mbappe, because he doesn’t know how to play as a forward in my opinion… It’s not that he doesn’t know, it’s just not his position.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner compared Mbappe’s situation to his own career transition at Madrid, explaining how he learned to play as a No. 9 over time.
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“If I were at Real Madrid, I would teach him to play as a 9. Because I was not a forward. I got used to playing as a forward. I played out wide and people forget,” Ronaldo added.
Mbappe tipped for greatness at Madrid
Despite his concerns about Mbappe’s current role, Ronaldo remains confident that the Frenchman will succeed at Madrid. He highlighted their special connection, recalling how a young Mbappe idolised him.
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Ronaldo said, “I love him very much, and not only because as a young man, he loved Cristiano Ronaldo very much and was his idol. But I really see him as a star, and he is going to bring a lot of joy to Real Madrid,” Ronaldo said.
He also urged Madrid fans to support their new talisman, saying, “I say this to the Real Madrid fans… Take care of the kid. I have no doubt Mbappe is going to give Real Madrid fans a lot of joy.”
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Mbappe has already begun repaying Madrid’s faith with his goal-scoring exploits, and as the season progresses, fans hope that he will be key in Real Madrid’s pursuit of domestic and European glory.