Kylian Mbappe, of France, gestures as he is presented to fans as a new Real Madrid player at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid, Tuesday, July 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Andrea Comas)
Kylian Mbappe was unveiled as the latest Real Madrid signing on Tuesday in front of a packed Santiago Bernabeu crowd with over 25,000 fans present for the French star’s presentation.
Mbappe who was handed the No.9 jersey waved to the fans, embraced club president Pérez and former Madrid player and coach Zinedine Zidane, who invited Mbappé to visit the Spanish club for the first time when he was just a teenager.
“It’s incredible day for me. Since being a kid I dreamed about playing for Madrid and today I’m here. It means a lot to me,” the French superstar said.
🏠 @KMbappe is in the house! 🤩#WelcomeMbappé pic.twitter.com/deN9dq8pmc
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) July 16, 2024
The message “Welcome, Mbappé” was shown on the large video boards at the newly revamped Bernabeu. Some of the club’s most iconic moments were also shown while the song “Nessun Dorma” was played on the loudspeakers. Images of Mbappe’s career were also displayed, as well as photos including Mbappé wearing Madrid’s uniform as a kid and posing alongside former club star Cristiano Ronaldo.
The record-15 European Cups won by Madrid were also on display on the stage where Mbappé was introduced.
“Today we welcome an exceptional player who today is fulfilling his childhood dream. Today you are here because it’s something that you wanted. Thank you for making a great effort to be able to wear this white jersey,” Perez said.
👕 A special shirt for a special day!
🌟 @KMbappe #WelcomeMbappé pic.twitter.com/Ow936hUJ9g— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) July 16, 2024
Mbappe, who announced his departure from Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint Germain in May, has joined the La Liga champions on a free transfer with an initial agreement for five seasons.
Mbappe’s affinity to the club in the Spanish capital has been long known. The World Cup winner with France has been linked to the club over the years. In 2022, reports of a move to Spain had been loud but Mbappe would extend his contract until June 2024, after an even elusive deal was offered by the Parisian club.
Mbappe recently participated in the Euro, scoring just 1 goal which came from the penalty spot and providing 1 assist as France were dumped out by eventual champions Spain in the semifinal.
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First uploaded on: 16-07-2024 at 18:10 IST
