Xabi Alonso: 'Chosen' Mbappe Poised to Emulate Ronaldo's Real Madrid Legacy

Kylian Mbappe, the French football sensation, stands on the brink of creating a legacy at Real Madrid akin to that of his idol Cristiano Ronaldo, according to manager Xabi Alonso who spoke on Saturday.

Having ended the previous season strongly and kicked off this one impressively, Mbappe has tallied 55 goals for Real Madrid during 2025, requiring just four more to equal the 59 goal benchmark Ronaldo established in 2013 as the clubs highest calendar year scorer.

Spanish media have drawn frequent parallels between Mbappe and Madrids all time leading scorer Ronaldo, citing his rising impact and prolific scoring prowess.

"Kylian is heading towards forging a legacy at Real Madrid much like Cristiano achieved. This stems not only from his key role in the squad but also from the drive he instils and the sheer volume of goals he delivers," Alonso stated at a press gathering.

"Kylian belongs to the elite few. He possesses an inner fire not merely to excel but to uplift those around him. This mirrors what Cristiano brings, a compelling drive that motivates the entire team."

Securing the European Golden Shoe and La Ligas leading scorer honours last term with 31 strikes, Mbappe now performs at an elevated standard, boasting 16 goals across 15 outings and nine in five Champions League fixtures.

As a youngster, Mbappe confessed to adorning his walls with Ronaldo posters, and he could edge nearer to that record when Celta Vigo arrives at the Bernabeu for Sundays La Liga clash.

Real Madrid will confront Erling Haalands Manchester City in the Champions League on December 10, followed by league encounters with Alaves and Sevilla, offering Mbappe four opportunities to reach Ronaldo's tally.

Ronaldo, representing Portugal, amassed 450 goals over 438 appearances for Real Madrid, while Mbappe has 69 in 79 since his 2024 transfer from Paris Saint Germain.