Kylian Mbappe hails ‘wonderful relationship’ with Cristiano Ronaldo after Real Madrid switch | OneFootball

Kylian Mbappe has spoken of a close bond with Cristiano Ronaldo, calling the Real Madrid great a genuine friend who has helped him settle in Spain amid scrutiny of his form.

“He is a friend now. It’s so great when people you idolise when you’re young become your friends. We used to talk a lot, and he helped me in my first year at Madrid, because he knows it very well. We have a wonderful relationship and I’m very happy with it,” he told Vanity Fair.

Mbappe has long idolised Ronaldo, and says their relationship now goes well beyond fan and idol.

On the pitch, Madrid’s campaign has faltered, with a second straight trophyless season looming and scrutiny fixed on the marquee 2024 arrival. Critics argue the team’s dynamism and work rate have dipped since his free move from Paris Saint-Germain.

Fan frustration has boiled over, with a large online petition urging his exit attracting millions of signatures. Supporters expected a new era, not a side that can look rigid in big games.

Mbappe is currently injured, and it is unclear if he will feature in Madrid’s final three La Liga matches against Real Oviedo, Sevilla and Athletic Club. He is expected to be France’s talisman at the 2026 World Cup in North America this summer.

Source: Goal.com