Kylian Mbappé has officially joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2024. After years of speculation and negotiations, the French superstar signed a five-year contract with the Spanish club, marking one of the biggest transfers in football history. His contract runs until 2029, with an option to extend. Mbappé joined Real Madrid on a free transfer after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired. He is reported to earn around €30 to €35 million net per year, making him one of the highest-paid players in La Liga. Additionally, he agreed to a signing bonus of approximately €150 million, part of which he waived to benefit PSG.
The transfer process took several years. Initial talks began in 2017, but Mbappé chose to move from Monaco to PSG instead. In 2022, he nearly transferred to Madrid again but decided to renew with PSG. Finally, in 2024, he made the decision to join Real Madrid after his contract expired.
Mbappé's motivation to join Real Madrid included fulfilling a childhood dream inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo, seeking a new sporting challenge in La Liga and the Champions League, and moving on from PSG, where despite heavy investments, the team had not won the Champions League.
Fans welcomed the signing enthusiastically, celebrating what they call the "Galáctico 2.0" era, featuring Mbappé alongside players like Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Jr. PSG’s president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, expressed disappointment but respected Mbappé's decision. Legendary Real Madrid figure Zinedine Zidane praised Mbappé, saying he would make history at the club.
Tactically, Mbappé is expected to play as a left winger or central striker in a 4-3-3 formation, alongside Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo in attack, with midfielders like Bellingham, Camavinga, and Valverde supporting. He will be a key goal scorer, replacing Karim Benzema, and his speed and dribbling will be crucial for counterattacks.
The transfer has significant effects on the football market. PSG must find a replacement, possibly targeting players like Victor Osimhen or Rafael Leão. Real Madrid’s brand value and merchandise sales are expected to surge, and La Liga gains back global attention following the departures of Messi and Ronaldo.
Mbappé’s unveiling is scheduled for July 2024, with his debut match likely in August during the club’s US tour or the Spanish Super Cup.
Challenges ahead include coping with the media pressure of being compared to legends like Ronaldo and Messi, building chemistry with teammates Vinícius and Bellingham, and adjusting to La Liga's playing style and pace.
Mbappé himself called the transfer a lifelong dream come true. Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez described it as a historic day for the club, while PSG coach Luis Enrique acknowledged the loss but emphasized that football continues.
In summary, Mbappé’s transfer to Real Madrid is a landmark event in football, combining sporting ambition, financial impact, and cultural significance. The football world eagerly awaits to see how he performs in the iconic white jersey.
