Tuesday, January 21, 2025, 1:41 p.m.
Kylian Mbappé commands the spotlight in the press room with the same finesse he displays on the pitch,leaving defenders in his wake. The French sensation took center stage ahead of Real Madrid’s clash with Salzburg in the Champions League’s seventh matchday,captivating the audience with his unwavering confidence. “I’m in a great place right now. For the past month or so, I’ve felt really good. I’m fully prepared for tomorrow’s game—both for my performance and the team’s,” Mbappé shared, reflecting on his earlier struggles this season and the reasons behind his resurgence.
“It was more of a mental challenge than anything else. Physically,I was fine,and I was happy with the team,but I knew I had to step up.After the Bilbao match, I told myself, ‘It’s time to turn things around.’ Playing for Real Madrid comes with high expectations, and I’m ready to meet them now,” he explained. The star forward acknowledged the criticism he faced earlier in the season but remained unfazed. “It’s natural. People expect a lot, and thay’re going to talk. I don’t take it personally. Staying calm and focused is key. I always knew things would improve,” he added.
Mbappé admitted there were tough moments but emphasized his unwavering belief in his ability to bounce back. “I always strive to give my best, and when I fall short, it’s frustrating. I knew this phase was temporary. After Bilbao, I realized things could only get better. That was the turning point,” he stated.
The forward expressed his joy at finally achieving a lifelong dream. “Playing for real madrid is everything I’ve ever wanted. Even during my rough patches, I was grateful to be here. The responsibility was mine, and I’ve worked hard to improve. Adapting to Spanish culture has been a learning experience, but I’m enjoying it.Life is good,” Mbappé saeid with a smile.
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thriving Under Pressure
Kylian Mbappé not only embraces pressure but thrives on it. “I’m the kind of player who needs that intensity. The constant push to deliver more. During the match against Celta, there were whistles from the crowd, but that’s expected at a club like Real Madrid. The standard here is to win, and if you fall short, like in the Super Cup, the fans will let you know. It’s part of the game,” explained the forward.Despite the challenges of that night, Mbappé showcased his leadership by rallying the Merengue supporters. When asked about his gesture to the stands, he said, “It’s about unity. I get the frustration, but we can’t let it divide us. It’s straightforward—we need everyone together to create something historic.”
The French star admitted that his initial days at Real Madrid were mentally taxing, affecting his performance. “I overthought everything—how to position myself, how to move.When you’re stuck in your head, it’s hard to play freely,” he shared. Mbappé also addressed his recent exclusion from the French national team and the criticism back home. “The national team situation is what it is. I can’t control the narrative, but my passion for France hasn’t wavered. I’m focused on giving my best for Madrid right now and looking forward to rejoining the national team in March.”
With 18 goals this season, Mbappé is nearing peak form, particularly shining in recent weeks. “My goal is to improve with every match. I trust my abilities and my teammates, and we’re aiming for more,” he stated during a press conference. He also reflected on adapting to a star-studded locker room. “I’ll never be a reserved player, but humility is key when joining a club like Real Madrid. This team has achieved everything, so you come in with respect and a willingness to work.”
mbappé remains unfazed by personal goal tallies. “If I score 40,great. If it’s more, even better,” he said. He also opened up about the team’s struggles after the Super Cup final loss. “Losing to a direct rival was tough.We were devastated on the flight back. but we regrouped quickly, focusing on the Cup and overcoming Celta, which wasn’t an easy task.The classic match was a low point, but in football, you have to shift your mindset fast.Now, our sights are set on defeating Salzburg.”
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