Even if his start to the season does not live up to expectations, Kylian Mbappé has enjoyed a special status since his arrival at Real Madrid. Very different from that of Karim Benzema during the same period.
Free from any commitment last July, Kylian Mbappé this time responded favorably to the advances of Real Madrid. Welcomed as a true star in a Santiago Bernabeu full as an egg, the Bondynois then crystallized the immense expectations of his new audience. More than four months later, the euphoria has completely subsided and the footballer's disappointing performances now raise many questions. However, its status remains very special.
Kylian Mbappé became a powerful brand long before joining Madrid and it was as much a marketing marriage as a sporting one that took place this summer when he signed his contract. His importance is such in Real's current economic project that it is simply unthinkable for some to see him on the bench, even if it is for his own good. At least this is the thesis developed Thursday by Georges Quirino-Chaves on the channel The Team.
The treasure of Florentino Pérez
“You obviously have to protect him when you’re a Real Madrid fan (….). The whole institution must protect him. I don't agree with treating him like another player, even if it means putting him on the bench. I think this is not possible. You have to realize what Kylian Mbappé is at Real Madrid. I was at his presentation at the Bernabeu this summer, you have to remember what it was. It was a huge thing, he filled the 80,000-seat stadium. For Florentino Pérez, it is the greatest treasure he had. »
And the journalist continues, with a comparison with the 2022 Ballon d'Or, but 2009 version. “It’s not (Karim) Benzema who arrived from Lyon and who still had everything to prove. […] There is such a requirement with him, in relation to what he represents. I'm not sure people would understand seeing him on the bench. » Kylian Mbappé will in any case try to get his head above water. Not easy for him after months of less well.
