French legend reflects on short stint at Real Madrid – ‘Unforgettable memories’ | OneFootball

French football legend Nicolas Anelka had a short but memorable stint at Real Madrid.

The former striker arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu in the summer of 1999, signing from Arsenal, but only stayed for one season before returning to his boyhood club, Paris Saint-Germain.

During his season-long stay in the Spanish capital, the Frenchman scored seven goals and set up six more from 33 matches, and went on to win the UEFA Champions League.

Anelka reflects on Real Madrid spell

Now, in an interview with SPORT, Anelka fondly remembered his time at Real Madrid even if it was short-lived.

“Well, it was incredible to win the Champions League. It’s not easy. Especially playing for Real Madrid, it’s something special. It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world. I have very good memories of my time in Spain, unforgettable memories,” he said.

“Because, first of all, Real Madrid is a special club. As I said before, it was one of the biggest clubs in the world. And winning the Champions League is also special. So, both things together are even more special,” Anelka added.

Nicolas Anleka during his time at Real Madrid. (Photo by Henri Szwarc/Bongarts/Getty Images)

Anelka then praised the performances of fellow Frenchman Kylian Mbappe at Real Madrid, backing him and the team to win a major title this season.

“Yes, I watch the matches. Kylian is doing very well. He scores goals in every match. And he’s good at it. He scored goals in Monaco, in Paris. Now he’s scoring goals in Madrid,” Anelka admitted.

“And I think the only thing missing is winning a title with Real Madrid. And hopefully at the end of the season he’ll win La Liga or the Champions League. But I think Real Madrid will win something this season.”

Anelka then went on to claim that Mbappe was one of the best in the world currently, alongside Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, as he said:

“He [Lamine] is one of the greatest talents in Europe and the world. As much as Mbappe, I think they are the two best. Especially when I was talking about France and Spain. He will play for Spain and Mbappe for France.

“So it’s going to be a great battle. It’s already a great battle between Barcelona and Real Madrid… and it will continue for a long time.”