Mbappe and Vinicius: Key Figures in Real Madrid’s Pursuit of Glory

omidbasir- Kylian Mbappe has made a significant mark at Real Madrid, netting 82 goals in 90 appearances across all competitions, with 38 of those goals scored this season alone. He claimed the La Liga Golden Boot last season and continues to lead the scoring charts this term.

Real Madrid is in pursuit of major silverware, both domestically and in European competitions, with their formidable number 10 at the forefront of this endeavor. The club worked diligently to secure Mbappe’s signature, seizing the opportunity presented when his contract with Paris Saint-Germain came to an end.

Transitioning to Spain as a free agent, Mbappe signed a lucrative deal, openly expressing his long-held dream of playing for the illustrious Madrid club. His move was further encouraged by influential teammates already at Los Blancos.

Vinicius Jr. took it upon himself to facilitate the transfer, regularly reaching out to Mbappe. In a conversation with Ibai Llanos, Vinicius shared, “Every summer, I wrote to him: ‘When are you coming?’ I acted as an agent. I did the same with Jude Bellingham. I aspire to play with the best to enhance our chances of winning. We spend more time with each other than our families, so it’s vital to foster a good relationship.”

There have been past speculations of a strained rapport between Mbappe and Vinicius, given their shared ambition to be the standout player in Madrid. However, these narratives have consistently been downplayed.

Mbappe stated, “I have a very good relationship with Vinicius. This year, we have gotten to know each other much better. He is an exceptional player and a wonderful person.”

He continued, “Two renowned players on the same team generate considerable media interest. We are aware that people talk about us frequently. I choose to normalize it because if a genuine issue arises, I will address it seriously, and people will know I mean it. This is not serious. In the life of a famous footballer, especially at Real Madrid, this is trivial.”

Vinicius has also faced speculation regarding a move away from the Santiago Bernabéu, with substantial offers reportedly prepared by clubs in the Saudi Pro League. Nevertheless, he expressed contentment in the Spanish capital and hinted at the possibility of extending his contract, which is set to expire in 2027.

He remarked, “I’m very happy here. Playing for Real Madrid and enjoying my life with my family gives me immense joy. Being content on and off the pitch is paramount.”

Despite a slight decrease in his performance since emerging as a Ballon d’Or contender in 2024, Vinicius has consistently surpassed the 20-goal mark in four consecutive seasons and remains in double figures this term, even while navigating challenges under former Madrid manager Xabi Alonso.

Vinicius acknowledges the pressure that comes with his role and claims to have adapted to it since becoming a sensational talent as a teenager. He commented on the demands of performing in high-stakes environments: “As young players, we don’t always understand what fame entails. I rose to prominence unexpectedly, leading to challenges like not being able to walk freely in public.

“The upside is the affection from fans, but the downside includes media scrutiny and rival fan hostility. However, I thrive in competitive atmospheres. We train for these moments. The best players shine under pressure, and at Real Madrid, we are prepared.”

Real Madrid is vying for both the La Liga title and the Champions League trophy this season, with Mbappe and Vinicius set to compete in the European knockout phase against José Mourinho’s Benfica on Tuesday, followed by a match against Osasuna on Saturday.