Comparing Kylian Mbappe’s record at Real Madrid after 30 matches with Cristiano Ronaldo’s

Kylian Mbappé and Cristiano Ronaldo are two of the most prominent figures in modern football, and their respective careers have garnered intense scrutiny from fans, analysts, and historians alike. Mbappé’s emergence as a global superstar at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has led to speculation about his potential future at some of the world’s top clubs, with Real Madrid being a prominent suitor. The recent hypothetical comparison between the two players, particularly after 30 matches for Real Madrid, offers an intriguing perspective on their footballing styles, achievements, and their impact on one of the biggest clubs in world football.

Kylian Mbappé at Real Madrid: A Hypothetical Look

As of the start of 2025, Kylian Mbappé has yet to make the switch to Real Madrid, but the ongoing rumors about his potential move to the Spanish capital suggest it is only a matter of time. If Mbappé were to join Real Madrid, comparisons would inevitably be drawn to some of the club's greatest ever players, with Cristiano Ronaldo standing as a benchmark of success. Given Mbappé’s extraordinary pace, technical ability, and knack for scoring goals, it is reasonable to believe that he could have an immediate impact at Madrid, potentially replicating or even exceeding Ronaldo's accomplishments.

Mbappé’s skills are widely regarded as some of the best in the world. His blistering pace, exceptional dribbling ability, and cool-headed finishing have made him one of the most effective forwards in football today. Should he continue to perform at the level that has seen him win multiple domestic titles with PSG and shine for France in international tournaments, his impact on Real Madrid could be profound.

However, the challenge for Mbappé would not just be replicating his PSG success but excelling in one of the most pressure-laden environments in football. Real Madrid is a club where great expectations follow every player, especially a forward with such a high profile. While the player’s early career at PSG would suggest he has the potential to thrive under such pressure, his first 30 matches for Los Blancos would likely shape how history remembers his time at the club.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Legacy at Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo’s tenure at Real Madrid remains one of the most illustrious in football history. From 2009 to 2018, Ronaldo not only solidified his place as one of the greatest footballers of all time but also redefined what it meant to be a Real Madrid forward. Upon his arrival from Manchester United, Ronaldo quickly became the club’s focal point, breaking records and leading Real Madrid to multiple La Liga titles, Champions League trophies, and domestic cups.

Ronaldo’s first 30 matches for Real Madrid provide valuable insight into the kind of impact he had. During that period, he was still adapting to his new surroundings in Spain, but his talent was undeniable. The Portuguese forward scored 22 goals in his first 30 matches for Los Blancos, a remarkable feat that highlighted his prolific nature in front of goal. His ability to score with both feet and his head, combined with his elite physical attributes, meant that he quickly became a central figure in the team’s attacking play.

What made Ronaldo’s early performances even more impressive was his ability to perform in high-pressure moments. Whether it was in El Clasico matches against Barcelona or in crucial Champions League fixtures, Ronaldo seemed to elevate his game when the stakes were highest. This was a feature of his Real Madrid career that remained consistent throughout his time at the club.

By his 30th match for Real Madrid, Ronaldo had already established himself as a player capable of leading the club to major victories. His ruthless efficiency in front of goal, combined with his leadership qualities, would help propel him to a record 450 goals in 438 appearances, a staggering statistic that cemented his place as one of the club’s greatest-ever players.

Key Differences in Playing Style

When comparing the playing styles of Mbappé and Ronaldo, it’s clear that while they share some similarities, their approaches to the game differ significantly. Ronaldo was a versatile forward who could operate as a winger, second striker, or central forward. Over the years, his playing style evolved from a quick-footed winger with a penchant for dazzling dribbles to a clinical goal scorer who relied on positioning, movement, and physical dominance.

Mbappé, on the other hand, has been a forward with remarkable speed and agility. His style of play is predicated on his ability to beat defenders with pace, making him a constant threat on the counter-attack. While Mbappé is also a clinical finisher, his game relies more on creating space for himself and his teammates through movement and dribbling, rather than simply relying on his physicality.

Whereas Ronaldo’s physical attributes—his strength, heading ability, and precise finishing—helped him dominate for many years, Mbappé’s youthful energy, dribbling skills, and acceleration provide a different kind of threat. In terms of their first 30 matches for Real Madrid, Mbappé would likely be expected to exhibit a different role within the team compared to Ronaldo. Mbappé’s pace would likely complement the club’s attacking play, especially on the counter, while Ronaldo’s presence allowed him to hold up the ball, make aerial contributions, and be a constant focal point for crosses into the box.

Conclusion

Comparing the first 30 matches of Kylian Mbappé and Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid provides an interesting lens through which to evaluate their potential impact at the club. While Mbappé has not yet joined the club, his potential to succeed in the Spanish capital is high, given his explosive talent and proven track record at PSG and with France. On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo’s first 30 matches at Real Madrid highlighted his innate ability to score goals and thrive under pressure, making him a key figure in the club’s success.

Should Mbappé eventually join Real Madrid, the comparisons to Ronaldo will likely continue throughout his career. However, it’s important to recognize that their styles are unique, and both players have the potential to leave an indelible mark on the club, even if their contributions manifest in different ways. Ronaldo’s legacy is firmly etched in Real Madrid’s history, but Mbappé’s future could very well see him join the ranks of Madrid’s all-time greats if he fulfills the immense promise that he has shown early in his career.