Real Madrid megastar feels ‘strong and confident’ as summer efforts begin to pay off | OneFootball

It has been a year since Real Madrid signed Kylian Mbappe as a free agent in one of the most notable transfers in the history of the club.

The 26-year-old superstar had his share of ups and downs during his debut campaign, in spite of which he ended up winning the Pichichi Trophy and the European Golden Boot.

However, Mbappe seems to be operating on a higher level now as he is off to a flying start to the 2025/26 season.

Taking it to the next level

And, according to MARCA, Mbappe’s efforts during the off-season in the summer are starting to bear fruit, as he now feels ‘strong’ and ‘confident’ about everything he does on the pitch.

Those who watch Mbappe training daily at Valdebebas quickly realised that on returning from his holidays, the French superstar looked completely different – both inside and out.

On the inside, his change was marked by the new role he has assumed within the group. He has been showing more confidence and security, in sharp contrast to the doubts and questions that surrounded him in his debut season.

Off to a flying start. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

On the outside, he returned leaner, fitter faster, and with that renewed confidence translating into the Mbappe of old, the player who used to strike fear into any defence.

Achraf Hakimi’s role

Unlike previous summers, this time Mbappe dedicated part of his holiday to training with his friend and former PSG teammate Achraf Hakimi.

Hakimi, after a short break, usually travels with a personal trainer to avoid losing fitness during extended rest periods. His objective is to gradually prepare for a strong return to club training. Mbappe joined the Moroccan international’s routine, and the results are clear.

His start has been explosive: three matches with Real Madrid, three goals scored and quite a few disallowed. Last night, he was also on target for France against Ukraine, becoming the joint second-highest goalscorer in the nation’s history.

Mbappe’s progress and transformation this summer is even more remarkable given how badly he suffered at the FIFA Club World Cup, where he was seriously ill and lost a lot of weight.

The French superstar now fully understands what Real Madrid represents and the level of demand it requires. He always had the respect of his teammates, but he has now gained their complete trust and is taking up greater responsibility.