Kylian Mbappé’s growing influence at Real Madrid has drawn comparisons with club great Cristiano Ronaldo after another decisive performance in La Liga against Valencia.
The France forward scored Real Madrid’s second goal in a 2–0 victory on Sunday evening, continuing a run of form that has seen him emerge as the central figure in the team’s attacking play this season.
Mbappé’s impact has not gone unnoticed within the club. Speaking after the match, Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa delivered glowing praise for the 25-year-old, suggesting his qualities and trajectory place him in the same conversation as former Madrid icon Cristiano Ronaldo.
“We’re running out of superlatives to describe Kylian. We thought we’d never see another player like Cristiano, but it seems Mbappé is on the verge of becoming like him. (…) We’re very lucky to have him. He’s the best player in the world right now.
As I said, Cristiano seemed like an alien and Kylian still has a long way to go, but he has the qualities required to follow in his footsteps. Why couldn’t he surpass him? If anyone can do it, it’s Kylian.”
Mbappé’s goal against Valencia once again underlined his importance to Real Madrid, as he provided the cutting edge needed to secure the win.
His ability to deliver in decisive moments has increasingly defined Madrid’s performances, with the forward often shouldering responsibility in crucial phases of matches.
Arbeloa’s comments reflect the growing belief within the club that Mbappé is capable of shaping an era at the Santiago Bernabéu.
While acknowledging that Ronaldo set extraordinary standards during his time in Madrid, the coach pointed to Mbappé’s pace, composure and consistency as traits that align him with the Portuguese forward’s legacy.
Despite the comparisons, Arbeloa was careful to stress that Mbappé’s journey is still unfolding. He highlighted the distance the Frenchman must still cover to match Ronaldo’s achievements, while emphasising that his current level places him among football’s elite.
For Real Madrid supporters, Mbappé’s performances are beginning to offer reassurance that the club has found another player capable of leading the team through defining moments.
Each goal and commanding display adds to a growing sense of expectation around his role in the side.
As the season progresses, Mbappé’s form will continue to be closely watched, with comparisons to past legends likely to intensify if he maintains his current influence in Madrid’s pursuit of domestic and continental success.
