Mbappé Joins Manchester City After Shock Real Madrid Exit — Masterstroke or Meltdown Under Xabi Alonso?
By ENOCH | Published May 27, 2025
In a stunning twist that’s rocked the football world, Kylian Mbappé has signed with Manchester City just months after his high-profile move to Real Madrid. The transfer, which seemed impossible, came shortly after Real introduced club legend Xabi Alonso as their new head coach.
Mbappé’s arrival at Madrid followed years of speculation and rejections. He finally joined on a free transfer from PSG in the summer of 2025, with President Florentino Pérez making it a personal mission. Fans saw him as the next Ronaldo, the future of the club.
That excitement quickly faded. By October, reports emerged that Manchester City had activated a massive €275 million buyout clause in Mbappé’s contract — a clause many believed was symbolic. But Pep Guardiola and City made it reality.
This sudden exit has disrupted Alonso’s vision, as Mbappé was expected to be the centerpiece of a new era. Yet speculation suggests Alonso may not have been convinced Mbappé fit his tactical philosophy. Some say he wasn’t ready to build a team around one star.
Meanwhile, Guardiola is reportedly thrilled. With Mbappé’s pace, finishing, and ability to break down defenses, City now looks even more dominant. His arrival could reshape the Premier League landscape.
For Madrid, selling a star so soon after signing him is unprecedented. Some see it as chaotic, but others believe it’s a strategic move. The funds from the sale could power a massive rebuild aligned with Alonso’s long-term plans. Targets like Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, Rafael Leão, Alphonso Davies, and even Martin Ødegaard are already being mentioned.
Mbappé’s camp insists the move isn’t about discontent but opportunity — the lure of working with Guardiola, playing in the Premier League, and aiming for the Ballon d’Or.
Madrid fans feel betrayed. Years of anticipation ended with no goals in El Clásico, no Champions League memories, and no La Liga dominance. Social media erupted with criticism and disbelief.
As Alonso begins his tenure, he faces immense pressure — but also an opportunity. Without the obligation to revolve around a superstar, he might build a more cohesive, tactically sound team.
This saga raises questions about loyalty and the state of modern football. Was Mbappé ever fully committed to Madrid, or was this always a business-driven plan?
Only time will reveal whether Madrid’s decision was a disaster or a stroke of genius. One thing is clear: football’s unpredictability has reached new heights, and all eyes now turn to Manchester to see what Mbappé does next.
