Kylian Mbappé Emulates Cristiano Ronaldo with Iconic "1, 2, 3 ...
Frenchman Kylian Mbappé unleashed excitement on Tuesday during his unveiling at Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu, where fans packed the stadium to witness their new Galactico. Mbappé kissed the club's crest multiple times, shared a "¡Hala Madrid!" echoing his idol Cristiano Ronaldo, and expressed affection for his new supporters.
One of Real Madrid's most anticipated days in recent years came to fruition. Seven years after their initial pursuit and after five attempts, Mbappé is now 'Real'. The gala presentation showcased the new Santiago Bernabéu's advancements, featuring a fully operational 360-degree scoreboard displaying Mbappé highlights, a runway, and main stage alongside a giant screen and the club's 15 Champions League trophies.
The event commenced with the entrance of Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez, honorary president José Martínez Pirri, and former player and coach Zinedine Zidane, followed by a video celebrating Real Madrid's 15 Champions League triumphs. Unseen footage of Mbappé's 2012 visit to Real Madrid's training complex with Zidane as his coach was shown, highlighting the Frenchman's best goals and performances.
Mbappé was accompanied by his family, close associates, and children from his 'Inspired by KM' foundation. Florentino Pérez took the floor first, emphasizing Mbappé's ability to "fulfill his dream" of donning the white jersey, attributing it to his perseverance through challenges.
"The time has come to welcome an exceptional player who is here to help us continue winning. A player who is fulfilling his lifelong dream. Welcome Kylian Mbappé," said Florentino.
"I want you to know that your love for Real Madrid has given you the strength to break through all barriers and obstacles on the path that led you to this stadium. Since childhood, you've seen this club has something special, and in this stadium, magical nights happen. Madridistas know why these magical nights occur, because this shirt never gives up, and this fanbase will always stand by you until the end," he assured.
"You've achieved your dream because you never gave up. You're here because you wanted to be, and only your determination could overcome these challenges. Thank you for making an effort that many cannot imagine to wear this white shirt today, the shirt of the 15-time Champions of Europe," he continued.
Following Florentino Pérez, Kylian Mbappé, cheered from the outset by his new fans, took the stage to win even more affection from them. After close calls in previous summers, where he came close to joining but remained at Paris Saint-Germain, he dedicated his speech to the supporters.
"Good morning, everyone. I'm going to try to speak in Spanish. Wow, it's incredible to be here. I've dreamt for many years of playing for Real Madrid, and today my dream is coming true. I'm a very happy boy today. Very happy," he began.
"Thanks to President Florentino Pérez, who has believed in me from day one. Many things have happened. And to all the people who have worked to get me here. I know it's been difficult, but I'm here, I'm a Real Madrid player, and my whole family is happy, with my mom crying...," he continued.
Next, Mbappé fulfilled the fans' request and kissed the club crest, a gesture he repeated several times before leaving the pitch.
The French player concluded his first speech as a Madridista with a "one, two, three, ¡Hala Madrid!" chant, echoed by the fans who filled the Santiago Bernabéu to welcome him.
With speeches highlighting Mbappé's efforts to join Real Madrid and messages of affection, the Frenchman completed a lap around the pitch, throwing balls into the crowd and kissing the club's crest.
