Mbappe talks Alonso, Bundesliga transfer interest, Ballon d’Or and Champions League favourites | OneFootball

Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe has shared high praise for new manager Xabi Alonso, saying the Spaniard has left a “big impression” on him.

Speaking in an interview with Bild (h/t AS), Mbappe highlighted Alonso’s ambition and knowledge of the club.

“He made a big impression on me. You can see a guy with a desire to succeed. He knows the club perfectly because he played for Real Madrid.

“Right now, we’re just trying to put into practice what he tells us. We’re trying to understand the game plan he has for us and then we’ll see what happens,” Mbappe explained.

The striker, who is central to Alonso’s project at Madrid, also reflected on the team’s start to the season.

“Our start was good, with three wins, of course, which is very positive, but we have to improve, we have to keep working, we have to keep improving because we know how difficult it is to win titles.

“We are on the right track and we’re just beginning a long journey, but the goal is always the same: to win titles. To achieve that, we try to take things one step at a time.”

Mbappe added, “I think we learned a lot last season, but it’s time to show what we learned. Of course, that will take time.

“This season is very important for the club, but we’re also approaching the World Cup, so it’s important for all the players who want to get there, including myself.”

On UCL and Bundesliga transfer links

Looking ahead to the Champions League, Mbappe said Real Madrid will always be favourites to win this title.

Mbappe reveals transfer interest from Bundesliga teams. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

“I always say Real Madrid is the favorite to win the Champions League. But there are many good teams in Europe, many.

“We saw that last year was great with the new Champions League format. This year will be even better. It will be interesting to see who triumphs in the end.”

The striker also revealed past transfer interest from Bundesliga clubs. “Many clubs contacted me.

“Bayern Munich contacted me when I was a little younger and could leave Monaco. Dortmund also asked. And RB Leipzig.

“And those are just the three clubs I remember. Maybe there were others, but I don’t remember them. Everyone is asking now, but it’s a bit late.”

Thoughts on Ballon d’Or

On the Ballon d’Or, Mbappe praised his peers, stating “Ousmane Dembele deserves it. For me, yes. I hope he wins the Ballon d’Or. I’ve supported him from the start.

“After that, we’ll see what happens. Because it’s not up to us. There are votes. Achraf will also be well positioned, for everything he’s shown; he’s had a historic season.

“Yamal is from Barcelona, we can’t say anything (laughs). He’s a very good player.”

Finally, when asked if winning the Ballon d’Or is his dream, Mbappe said, “Of course. It’s on everyone’s mind. But it comes down to having a good team season.

“If I win trophies and have a good season, I want to win it too. Now I’ll do everything I can to help the team and win trophies.”