In an insightful interview with Real Madrid’s official channel, Kylian Mbappé opened up about a challenging period in his career. The 26-year-old admitted that 2022 was a particularly tough year, leaving a lasting impact on his football journey. His comments, especially regarding his time at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), have stirred controversy, particularly in France, where his departure from the club remains a sensitive issue.
As Real Madrid players resumed training ahead of their La Liga match against Valencia, Mbappé took the chance to express his contentment with life in Madrid. However, his criticism of his PSG years caught attention, particularly in Paris. Reflecting on 2022, he remarked, “I didn’t like that year much because I was playing at PSG,” laughing before adding, “And on top of that, I had to play against Real Madrid!”
These comments have resonated strongly in Paris, where fans are still processing his exit. 2022 was the year PSG managed to retain Mbappé despite his high-profile links to Madrid, but for the player, it was a year he would rather forget.
Strained Relationship with PSG
Mbappé’s once-promising relationship with PSG had soured by the time he left for Madrid. He revealed feeling like a “hostage” during his final years at the French club, with enormous financial offers and political pressures to keep him in Ligue 1. While he and PSG enjoyed a strong partnership in the early years, the bond deteriorated over time, particularly after the dramatic 2022 Champions League tie against Real Madrid. Despite scoring a brilliant goal in the first leg, PSG were eliminated in a stunning comeback led by Karim Benzema. Mbappé admitted, “It was tough to play against the club I had always dreamed of representing,” reflecting on the internal conflict he faced at that time.
A Dramatic Move to Madrid
After years of speculation, Mbappé finally made the move to Real Madrid in June 2024, leaving PSG behind in dramatic fashion. The transfer was a culmination of his lifelong dream. “It wasn’t easy to leave, but I knew it was time to move on,” he shared in the interview.
The reception in Madrid was overwhelming, with thousands of fans filling the Santiago Bernabéu to welcome their new star. Mbappé made a special effort to connect with the supporters by speaking in Spanish, a gesture that endeared him to the Madrid faithful and helped him integrate into the team quickly.
Rediscovering Confidence
After a shaky start to the season, including a missed penalty against Liverpool, which he called “one of the lowest points” of his career, Mbappé has found his form in recent weeks. With five goals and two assists in his last six matches, his confidence has soared. He credited his teammates and the coaching staff for helping him adjust. “I feel like I’m finally playing my best football again,” he said, adding, “This is just the beginning of what I hope will be a historic chapter for me at Real Madrid.”
Looking Ahead
As 2025 approaches, Mbappé has set ambitious goals for his time at Real Madrid, including winning La Liga, the Champions League, and the revamped Club World Cup. His arrival has rejuvenated Madrid’s attack, with his partnership alongside Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham already proving to be one of the most dangerous trios in world football. The potential addition of defensive reinforcements, such as Alphonso Davies, could further strengthen Madrid’s title aspirations in the coming months.
Lingering Tensions with PSG
Back in Paris, Mbappé’s remarks have sparked backlash. Many PSG fans feel betrayed, especially given the lengths the club went to retain him in 2022. However, Mbappé remains unshaken. “I’ve always been honest about my feelings,” he said. “I respect PSG and what we achieved together, but my heart was always set on Madrid.”
Building a Legacy
As he continues to impress at Real Madrid, Mbappé is creating a legacy that transcends borders. His journey reflects determination, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. Despite already achieving so much at a young age, the sky is the limit for the French forward. His move from Paris to Madrid may have been marked by challenges, but it now seems like the beginning of a brighter chapter.
While his comments have caused a stir in Paris, they also highlight the passion and drive that make Mbappé one of the best players of his generation. With 2025 on the horizon, all eyes will be on him to see if he can turn his lofty ambitions into reality and etch his name into Real Madrid’s storied history.
