Real Madrid - 'O Rei Mbappé': Madrid press loses its mind

Real Madrid: Mbappé, media frenzy in Spain

Real Madrid - 'O Rei Mbappé': Madrid press loses its mind

Real Madrid traveled to San Mamés with the obligation to respond after three matches without a win. Under immense pressure, Xabi Alonso could have plunged into a deep crisis with another misstep. That's when Kylian Mbappé took matters into his own hands. With a dazzling brace and a crucial assist, he led Los Merengues to a clear and convincing victory. Thibaut Courtois shut things down at the back, but it was the French striker who lit up the night and brought real relief to the Madrid dressing room.

The Spanish press bows down

The day after this masterclass, the Iberian media heaped praise on a monumental performance. The newspaper Marca points out that Mbappé already has fifty-five goals in 2025 and is now just four away from Cristiano Ronaldo's all-time record for goals in a calendar year with Real Madrid. The paper even dares a sensational comparison, stating that "Mbappé is Cristiano and Ronaldo," a nod to both the Portuguese and the Brazilian legends, as his influence and style blend power, speed, and a natural goalscoring instinct.

Media frenzy around the Frenchman

The newspaper AS goes even further, headlining "O Rei Mbappé," a direct reference to Pelé. In a passionate editorial, Tomas Roncero confesses his amazement. He explains that, in his view, it once seemed impossible to see a player reach the stratospheric level of Cristiano Ronaldo again. But he concludes that "Mbappé is stratospheric," even placing the Frenchman on par with the best version of Ronaldo—or perhaps just above.