Kylian Mbappe has openly praised Cristiano Ronaldo, referring to the Portuguese star as a \"footballing legend\" and \"one of a kind\" as the two prepare to clash in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals. The match, set in Hamburg, is generating excitement primarily due to the anticipated showdown between their captains.
During a pre-match news conference, Mbappe expressed his admiration for Ronaldo, calling him his idol and highlighting the personal connection they've developed over time. \"Everyone knows just how much I admire Cristiano Ronaldo as a player,\" Mbappe said. \"Over time, I have been lucky to brush shoulders with him, to get to know and have a chat with him. We are still in contact. He is always helping me – he keeps up with what is going on in my life and he gives me tips. It's an honor for me, especially when we think about what he has done for the footballing world. Regardless of what has happened before or what happens after, he will be a footballing legend.\"
As Mbappe recently signed with Real Madrid, where Ronaldo starred from 2009-18, their encounter could symbolize a significant moment in European football. Mbappe underscored that while he respects Ronaldo immensely, he is forging his own path and aims to make his own mark at Real Madrid. \"No, I think that he is one of kind,\" Mbappe said. \"There is only one Cristiano Ronaldo, there will only ever be one. I am following my own path. My dream of playing at Real Madrid is coming a reality. I hope that I will also be able to mark football but I am not going to write the next chapter of Cristiano Ronaldo's story. I hope I will be able to be one of a kind at Real Madrid and be completely different.\"
Despite Mbappe's impressive record, including being the top scorer at the 2022 World Cup with eight goals, his performance at Euro 2024 has been modest, scoring once from the penalty spot in three games. The French team has struggled to find their attacking rhythm, with no goals from open play and the other two goals being own goals.
This encounter not only pits two of football's brightest stars against each other but also represents a potential passing of the torch, though Mbappe emphasizes Ronaldo's unique legacy.
Reference(s):
Mbappe praises 'legend' Ronaldo ahead of playing Portugal at Euro 2024
cgtn.com
