La Liga giants Real Madrid introduced their latest addition, Kylian Mbappe, in front of a packed Santiago Bernabeu stadium on Tuesday, July 16. Mbappe, one of Real Madrid’s most high-profile signings, will wear jersey No.9. The forward joined the team on June 3, capping a lengthy transfer saga.
Upon joining the club, the French captain delivered an emotional speech, thanking Real Madrid president Florentino Perez for making the move possible. Mbappe stated that he had a long-held dream of playing for the club and is delighted that his wish has finally come true. Mbappe’s family was also emotional throughout the ceremony, with his mother in tears during his first speech to the crowd.
My dream came true today. I’m happy, I’m really happy. It feels incredible to be here. I’ve slept many years dreaming of Real Madrid and now it’s reality, Mbappe said. I see my mom in tears and it’s an incredible day for me. Let me say thanks to Florentino Perez, Mbappe further added.
During the presentation ceremony, Real Madrid revealed unseen footage of Mbappe admiring Zinedine Zidane, who is regarded as one of Madrid’s greatest-ever players. According to reports, Mbappe has signed a five-year contract with the Spanish giants and will be unveiled in front of the Santiago Bernabeu ahead of his national team obligations for the upcoming Euro 2024. Mbappe’s Real Madrid contract is reported to be worth approximately 15 million euros (16.2 million USD) per year after taxes.
Mbappe completed his PSG chapter as the club’s all-time leading scorer with 256 goals, having joined the Ligue 1 champions from AS Monaco on an initial loan-then permanent contract in 2017. During his time with the French club, the forward won six Ligue 1 titles, three French Cups, and two League Cups. Mbappe also holds the record for winning the most Ligue 1 Player of the Year awards, with five.
Meanwhile, Olivier Giroud, France’s top goal scorer, has announced his international retirement following the conclusion of Euro 2024. The 37-year-old striker was part of France’s Euro 2024 squad but was eliminated in the semi-finals. His expectations of capping off his international career on a good note were dashed. Spain defeated France 2-1 in a nail-biting thriller, ending Les Bleus’ Euro campaign.
Before the start of the competition, the seasoned striker announced that it would be his final dance in French colors. During his exceptional career, he netted 57 goals in 137 appearances. Giroud is also the country’s third most-capped player after Hugo Lloris and Lillian Thuram.
