Mbappé learning new tricks with Xabi Alonso: “He’s made a good impression on me”

Kylian Mbappé has quickly become the cornerstone of Xabi Alonso’s ambitious new era at Real Madrid. In a recent interview with Bild, the French superstar opened up about his first impressions of the Spanish legend turned head coach.

“He really impressed me,” Mbappé said. “You can tell he’s hungry to succeed. He knows this club inside and out—he played here, after all. Right now, we’re just trying to execute what he’s asking of us. We’re learning his system, his game plan, and we’ll see where it takes us.”

Encouraging start, but eyes on the big prize

Reflecting on Madrid’s early La Liga campaign, Mbappé remained cautiously optimistic. “We started strong with three wins (Osasuna, Oviedo, Mallorca), which is obviously a great sign. But we know we’ve got to keep improving, keep pushing ourselves. Winning titles isn’t easy—and that’s our goal. We’re on the right path, but it’s a long journey. Step by step, that’s how we get there.”

Learning from last season’s setbacks

Mbappé didn’t shy away from acknowledging the sting of last year’s disappointments. Ancelotti’s team were involved in seven competitions but won just two - the UEFA Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup.

Madrid came second in LaLiga, the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup and only made it to the quarter finals of the Champions League.

“We learned a lot from last season. Now it’s time to show what we’ve taken from those experiences. That’s not going to happen overnight. This season is huge for the club—and with the World Cup coming up, it’s just as important for every player who wants to be there, myself included.”

When asked about Real Madrid’s chances in Europe this time around, Mbappé didn’t hesitate.

“I always say Madrid is the favorite to win the Champions League. But there are so many great teams across Europe. Last year’s tournament was incredible with the new format, and this year promises to be even better. It’ll be exciting to see who comes out on top.”

Bundesliga interest

Mbappé also revealed that several German clubs had tried to sign him earlier in his career.

“A lot of teams reached out. Bayern contacted me when I was younger and still at Monaco. Dortmund showed interest. So did RB Leipzig. Those are just the ones I remember—maybe there were others. But now? It’s a little late,” he ended.