Kylian Mbappe’s debut season with Real Madrid is rewriting history books. The French phenom, whose blockbuster move to the Spanish giants captivated global football, has already eclipsed Cristiano Ronaldo’s legendary first-year goal tally. But this chapter isn’t just about numbers—it’s a tale of resilience. From early penalty heartbreaks to clutch Champions League heroics, Mbappe’s journey has been a rollercoaster.
As he inches closer to breaking all-time records, his story mirrors the grit and glamour that define Real Madrid. And the best part? He’s just getting started.
From rock bottom to record-breaker: Kylian Mbappe’s redemption arc
When Mbappe’s penalty was saved by Athletic Club’s Julen Agirrezabala in December—his second miss in a week—the striker hit what he called “rock bottom.” “I realized I had to give my all for this shirt,” Mbappe confessed. “Play with personality.” That moment of vulnerability became a catalyst. Since then, the 26-year-old has netted 21 goals in 24 appearances, surpassing Ronaldo’s 2009/10 debut tally (33) and trailing only Ivan Zamorano (37) and Ruud van Nistelrooy (33) in Real Madrid’s debut-season scoring pantheon.
The stats speak:
Kylian Mbappe (2024/25): 31 goals (and counting)
Cristiano Ronaldo (2009/10): 33 goals
Ronaldo Nazário (2002/03): 30 goals
Mbappe’s goals aren’t empty stats. His hat-trick against Manchester City propelled Madrid into the Champions League semifinals, while a solo masterclass against Ronaldo-owned Real Valladolid showcased his icy composure. Even fatigue couldn’t derail him: Days after a grueling 120-minute UCL clash with Atletico, Mbappe bagged a brace against Villarreal to reclaim La Liga’s top spot. “From the warm-up, it was difficult—we were exhausted,” he admitted post-match. “But we had to respect the badge.”
Why this matters:
Legacy in Motion: Topping Ronaldo’s debut numbers cements Mbappe’s place among Madrid’s pantheon—a feat few imagined possible so soon.
Clutch Gene: His goals have decided season-defining matches, blending flair with unshakable nerve.
Redemption Narrative: Transforming early setbacks into fuel, Kylian Mbappe embodies resilience, a trait Madridistas revere.
Mbappe’s meteoric rise isn’t just about goals; it’s a statement. At 26, he’s blending Ronaldo’s relentless drive with a humility that resonates in post-match interviews. “I don’t want to score a goal and just go home,” he declared at season’s start. True to his word, he’s become the heartbeat of a Madrid squad chasing a historic double. With seven games left, surpassing Zamorano’s 37-goal record is within reach—and for Mbappe, limits are merely myths.
As the Bernabéu chants his name, one thing’s clear: Kylian Mbappe isn’t just filling Ronaldo’s shoes. He’s carving a legacy all his own.