It wouldn’t take long for him to react. Around two hours after Real Madrid’s press release announcing the departure, by mutual agreement, of Xabi Alonso, Kylian Mbappé paid tribute to his now former coach via a story published on Instagram around 8:30 p.m.
“It was short, but it was a pleasure to play for you and learn from you,” wrote the Merengues star striker. “Thank you for putting your trust in me since day one. I will remember you as a coach who had clear ideas and who knew a lot about football. Good luck for the next chapter of your career,” concluded the 27-year-old Frenchman.
Under the orders of Xabi Alonso, Mbappé had an excellent start to the season at Real Madrid. In 25 matches played, the Madrid number 10 has scored 29 goals and provided 5 assists in all competitions. He also equaled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for goals with Real in a calendar year by scoring his 59th goal of the year 2025, on December 21.
One last controversy after the match against Barça
The former Paris Saint-Germain striker was one of the first to write a public message to his former coach, before being imitated a few moments later by Dean Huijsen, Arda Güler and Aurélien Tchouaméni. “Thank you for everything!” It was a pleasure to learn from one of the best in history. I wish you the best in your journey,” said the French midfielder.
The speed of the tribute paid by Mbappé may have surprised some followers, while a video posted on social networks clearly shows the striker refusing to offer a guard of honor to the Barcelona players after Real’s defeat in the final of the Spanish Super Cup against the Blaugranas this Sunday, as requested by Xabi Alonso, taking his teammates with him.
