Since the start of the season, Kylian Mbappé has been in the spotlight, especially regarding his potential transfer to Real Madrid. From his early days as a professional, the French forward has always been under immense pressure, but this season seems to be particularly challenging. The former PSG player is constantly under scrutiny, with every move he makes being closely observed and analyzed by the media.
Adapting to a new club, especially one as prestigious as Real Madrid, is never an easy task. A new environment, a different culture, and ever-increasing expectations have placed Mbappé in a tough position. His season so far has been somewhat underwhelming, leading to widespread criticism. The physical and mental fatigue is starting to show, and recently, Mbappé made a significant decision to protect his form: he turned down two call-ups to the French national team, opting to focus on his personal goals, particularly his pursuit of the Ballon d’Or.
At nearly 26 years old, Mbappé has yet to win the prestigious award, unlike his idols Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who had already made their mark on football history by this age. Joining Real Madrid has certainly increased his visibility, but it has also brought more competition. In a team featuring global talents like Vinícius Jr., who finished second in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings, and Jude Bellingham, who placed third, Mbappé will need to carve out his place. Every decision he makes, both on and off the field, could prove pivotal in his career and his quest for the coveted Ballon d’Or.
