Kylian Mbappe expressed his deep connection with Cristiano Ronaldo during his grand unveiling at Santiago Bernabeu, honoring the Real Madrid legend in a special way.
Mbappe’s highly anticipated move to Real Madrid concluded with a spectacular presentation at the iconic stadium, ending a transfer saga that lasted over two years.
At the event, Mbappe paid tribute to Ronaldo, who made a legendary transfer from Manchester United to Real Madrid in 2009 and wore the same jersey.
The stadium was packed with an enthusiastic crowd, with around 85,000 fans in attendance, reminiscent of Ronaldo’s historic reception 15 years ago.
To honor his football hero, Mbappe mimicked Ronaldo’s famous “uno, dos, tres, Hala Madrid!” greeting to the fans. This gesture was both a tribute to Ronaldo and a reflection of Mbappe’s profound admiration for the Portuguese star.
After his presentation, Mbappe said at his first Real press conference: “Ending the presentation with ‘Un, dos, tres, Hala Madrid’ was a nod to Cristiano Ronaldo.
He is a friend who has made history at this club. He has always given me advice on the game and on the ability to stay connected to your passion.”
Mbappe added on being perceived as a ‘galactico’ signing: “I’m still a nobody at Real, I haven’t played a single match. Such a welcome when I haven’t done anything here yet is incredible.
Thanks to the fans. I want to show on the pitch what I can do. There is no better place to win titles. If I fit in well, everything will work out. I will put my energy into that to adapt to the team, that is the No. 1 priority.
The pressure is on for Mbappe as he takes over the No. 9 jersey previously worn by Ronaldo. The former Paris Saint-Germain star will be expected to make an immediate impact when Real Madrid kick off their new La Liga season against Mallorca on August 18.