Courtois Reflects on Mbappe’s Growth and His Own Future at Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, amassed an impressive 450 goals during his tenure at Real Madrid, becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer. In contrast, Kylian Mbappe has made a remarkable impact in his time at Santiago Bernabeu, netting 62 goals in just 75 appearances, including 18 goals this season.

As a World Cup champion, Mbappe is widely regarded as a potential future recipient of the prestigious Golden Ball. Although leadership has not always been his strongest attribute, at the age of 26, he is increasingly stepping into that role. He possesses a strong desire to achieve Champions League success.

Thibaut Courtois expressed his belief in Mbappe’s potential, indicating in an interview with El Partidazo from COPE that while Ronaldo and Mbappe are different players, the latter has begun to exhibit a more pronounced winning mentality this season. “This year Kylian has shown that mentality more; he’s stepped up his game and is really driving the team forward. You can tell he’s a leader, and it will become even more apparent with each match,” Courtois noted.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo continues to set extraordinary standards even at 40 years of age, maintaining his prolific scoring form with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr. He is also expected to represent Portugal in the 2026 World Cup as he aims to reach 1,000 career goals.

Courtois recognizes that many players draw inspiration from Ronaldo as they strive to prolong their careers. He does not aim to replicate Ronaldo’s path but is not ready to retire anytime soon. The 33-year-old goalkeeper remarked, “Seeing that [Gianluigi] Buffon played until his forties… I don’t think I’ll go that far, but [Manuel] Neuer, at 38 or 39, is still playing at a very high level. I’ve always had that idea in my head of playing until 38 or 39, and I hope it happens at Real Madrid.”

Courtois also expressed his understanding of the natural progression of football, stating, “And if that’s not possible, when the club decides, I’ll step aside, and there won’t be any problems. I’m happy here and I understand that at some point they’ll want to put someone else in my place. It’s only natural.”

When the time comes for Courtois to depart, he aspires to be remembered as a legend of Real Madrid, although he humbly acknowledges that he may not be seen as the greatest goalkeeper in the club’s history. “I think there’s ‘a Saint,’ Iker Casillas, who means a lot to Real Madrid fans and Spanish football. But hearing your name among those names is already a compliment.”

Ultimately, Courtois recognizes that to be remembered among the best, one must win trophies, a goal he continually strives for. “No one will remember if I saved eight shots against Liverpool, so it’s important to keep winning trophies. When I retire from Real Madrid, everyone can have their say. I’m here now, and every day I’m here is wonderful. This is where I’m happiest.”

Courtois’ current contract with Real Madrid runs until 2027, and he has already made over 300 appearances, contributing to three La Liga titles and two Champions League victories.