French striker Kylian Mbappe recreated the moment he raised his hand to shout for fans like his idol C. Ronaldo 15 years ago on his debut for Real Madrid on July 17.

More than 80,000 people came to Bernabeu to welcome the new French player. The striker born in 1998 showed his gratitude to his idol C. Ronaldo – who is also a legend of Real – on his debut day.

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At the end of his speech, Mbappe raised his hand and shouted to the fans to say “Go Madrid” like C. Ronaldo did at Real in 2009. Mbappe said that after France beat Portugal in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals, he texted his idol C. Ronaldo to ask about him and wish him the best. The new Real player said that his senior superstar plays the role of his advisor.

“He always gives me advice, tells me to work hard and show passion for the game. The Euros were a difficult experience for him but Ronaldo is still a big idol and I want to send him a big hug,” Mbappe said.

Mbappe made an impressive debut in front of more than 80,000 Real fans at the Bernabeu on July 17. Photo: Instagram Kylian Mbappe

Kylian Mbappe has been a fan of C. Ronaldo since he was a child, posting pictures of his idol all over his room. The French striker admitted that he is a huge fan of his Portuguese senior. Before the Euro 2024 quarter-final on July 6, Mbappe said he was honored to play against his idol, affirming that C. Ronaldo is one of a kind. However, the French striker also said that he wants to follow his own path and not continue CR7’s legacy at Bernabeu.

On the afternoon of July 17, Kylian Mbappe signed a 5-year contract with Real Madrid. He wore the number 9 shirt, just like the day C. Ronaldo first joined the royal team.