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Kylian Mbappé has gotten used to being the main star at PSG, but Real Madrid operates differently, and the Frenchman will need to adjust his expectations and behavior. Real Madrid won their first match after the international break against Real Sociedad, with both goals coming from penalties. Vinícius Júnior scored the first, and Mbappé converted the second.
A lot of noise has surrounded the young Frenchman, with many criticizing Mbappé’s performances and applying various labels to the 26-year-old. Despite Mbappé's recent arrival at the club, fans immediately expected him to shine and maintain his stellar form. Like any player, Mbappé needs a period of adjustment, and it's unrealistic to expect him to deliver his best right away.
A few hours before the match, French newspaper L'Équipe reported that Mbappé had already started to annoy one of his new teammates. According to the French paper, Rodrygo is the player who has shown discontent with his role on the team and the lack of recognition for his contributions. L'Équipe noted that Rodrygo seems increasingly frustrated, primarily because Mbappé has been given preferential treatment in the starting lineup.
In the game against Real Sociedad, Rodrygo was on the bench, but circumstances worked in his favor when Brahim Díaz's injury allowed him to come on earlier than planned. Mbappé joined Real Madrid this summer after Florentino Pérez had tried for years to bring him to the club, so it's unlikely he'll be warming the bench anytime soon.
On the other hand, despite his impressive performances, Rodrygo remains a perpetual backup and has yet to secure a regular starting spot, despite being linked with a move away from Real Madrid, notably to Manchester City, over the summer. He ended up staying, but his future remains uncertain.
Rodrygo recently described his situation during the international break, metaphorically portraying himself as a "patch" for the team. He expressed frustration over his role, saying that he often fills in gaps in attack and is called upon when a player is missing. "If someone is missing on the right, it's Rodrygo. If someone is missing as a striker, put Rodrygo there. Sometimes it really bothers me, but I’m a team player," he stated.
Interestingly, Rodrygo is one of Florentino Pérez’s favored players, which is why he’s not being let go. However, this does not seem to be the case with Carlo Ancelotti, who usually has other plans.
Kylian Mbappe on his arrival: A lot of things happened, but I want to say thank you
Kylian Mbappé, one of the most coveted footballers globally, has finally joined Real Madrid this year, fulfilling a dream he’s had for a long time. Although many teams showed interest in him, Mbappé has always made it clear that his ultimate goal was to play for Madrid.
Upon his arrival, Mbappé thanked everyone, noting that he had dreamed of being part of this club since he was a kid. He even mentioned that he used to have a poster of Cristiano Ronaldo in his room, showing just how much he admired Real Madrid from a young age.
Now at Real Madrid, Mbappé is eager to make a big impact. He’s determined to not only help the team succeed but also to finally win the Champions League, a major goal he’s been working towards throughout his career.
"I want to thank the president [Florentino Pérez] first," Mbappé said. "He believed in me from the first day. A lot of things happened, but I want to say thank you. I want to thank everyone who has worked for me to come here. I know it was hard but now I'm here, I'm a Real Madrid player.
Since I was a kid I had one dream, to play here. Being here means a lot to me ... Now I want to achieve another dream, being at the level of this club, the best in the world. I can say one thing: I'll give everything for this club and this badge."
Florentino Pérez congratulated Kylian Mbappé, recognizing how special it is for him to finally join Real Madrid. Pérez reflected on how Mbappé’s passion for the club started when he was very young. He mentioned a memorable moment from when Mbappé was just 13 years old and had the chance to visit the stadium and meet Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid City.
The key man of Real Madrid pointed out that Mbappé’s strong connection to Real Madrid and his determination to join the team have played a big role in making this dream come true. He appreciated the young Frenchman's efforts and dedication to overcoming challenges to wear the Real Madrid shirt.
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