Mbappe calls for Real Madrid ‘step forward’ under Mourinho

Kylian Mbappe says Real Madrid must take “a step forward” and return to winning trophies this season, insisting the squad has the desire and focus required to deliver success under new manager Jose Mourinho.

The France forward, speaking to Real Madrid’s official television channel, said the club’s priority was clear after a trophyless 2025-26 campaign. Mbappe is determined to help Real Madrid reclaim silverware, having also been unable to lead France to the World Cup title this summer.

“I am very happy to be back and to get my first impressions of the team, the new coaching staff, my team-mates and everyone working at Valdebebas,” said Mbappe, in comments reported by Mundo Deportivo.

“It is always good to come back here and prepare for the season.”

Mbappe welcomed the arrival of Mourinho and highlighted the manager’s experience and record of success. He said the pair had been in regular contact, including during the World Cup and in recent days at the club’s training base.

“We spoke a lot during the World Cup, and also over the past few days here,” Mbappe said.

“It is very positive to have a manager with this experience, who knows how to win and knows the path we have to follow to achieve victories.”

He added: “As a player, it is great to have a manager who knows where he is going. I think having him is a positive for us.”

‘Now is the time to work at full intensity’

Mbappe said pre-season offered the ideal opportunity for the squad to work as hard as possible before competitive fixtures begin. Once the campaign is under way, he explained, players must pay greater attention to managing their workload.

“I try to give everything I have because this is the period when we can work as much as possible,” said the 27-year-old.

“When the matches begin, it becomes more about managing the workloads. Now is the right time to work at full intensity and get the feeling we need so that we are ready for our first league match.”

The forward was unequivocal when outlining his expectations for the new campaign.

“I think we have to win, and I am sure that this year we will return to winning trophies. I am certain of that,” he said.

“That is what we want, and it will happen because I feel the team has the desire. We will remain focused throughout the year to make Real Madrid’s fans happy. Nothing is more important than winning trophies with the team and sharing the fans’ joy.”

Mbappe also reflected on his first goal for Real Madrid, scored two years ago, describing the occasion as a landmark moment in his career. He said making his debut for a new club was always special, but that playing for Real Madrid made the experience even more significant, particularly because it came in a final.

“It was a very special day,” Mbappe said. “Your first match for a new team is always special, and when the team is Real Madrid, it becomes even more important and magical, especially as it was a final.”

“I enjoyed that day: a goal, a trophy, a smile, and everything was wonderful. The past two years have been full of changes for me because it was the first time I had left my country, and the experience has been extremely positive.”

Mbappe added that he had grown fond of the club, La Liga and life in Madrid.

“I love the club very much, and I love playing in La Liga and living in Spain, and here in Madrid,” he said. “It is very important for a player to feel comfortable in the city where he lives.”

The France international said joining Real Madrid remained the fulfilment of a long-held ambition, but stressed that enjoying the opportunity was no substitute for winning.

“It was a dream to come here, and it is still a dream to be here every day and have this opportunity,” he said.

“I am someone who knows how to enjoy the present. I enjoy being here and I know how lucky I am to be at Real Madrid, but now we have to win.”

He continued: “You can be anywhere, but when you are at Real Madrid, you have to win trophies and competitions. That is why I am here and, as I said, we will win trophies this year.”

Mbappe ended by addressing Real Madrid’s supporters directly.

“Hello, Madridistas. This is a message to thank you for all the support you have given us during the two years I have spent here,” he said.

“I know this year will be even more important, and that we will achieve great things together. We have to be ready, and we are already ready.”