Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has lauded Kylian Mbappé for his sensational start to the season, with the French forward leading the scoring charts in both LaLiga and the Champions League ahead of Wednesday’s showdown with Juventus.
Since joining Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain last season, Mbappé, 26, has been unstoppable. He’s netted 10 goals in nine LaLiga appearances, added five in just two Champions League games, and scored three more for France this term. His lethal finishing and dynamic presence have helped Real win 10 of their 11 games so far across all competitions, leaving them top of LaLiga with 24 points, two clear of Barcelona, and enjoying a perfect start in Europe.
Alonso highlighted that Mbappé’s impact goes beyond scoring. “It’s not just the goals,” he said. “His presence elevates the whole team, both on and off the ball. He’s inspiring his teammates and creating space, making our attack more fluid. That influence is as vital as his finishing.”
Real Madrid will face a struggling Juventus side, winless for over a month and sitting seventh in Serie A, four points behind AC Milan. Yet Alonso urged caution. “We have to stay alert. Any Italian team can be dangerous, even when struggling. Juventus are a historic club with quality players, and these European fixtures are always intense.”
Looking ahead to the Bernabéu clash, Alonso stressed the importance of the fans. “We want to kick off our Champions League campaign strongly. The stadium must feel the energy—we owe them a spectacle, and we want the crowd to respond with the same intensity.”
Mbappé’s form and Real Madrid’s momentum promise a thrilling European night, one where the Frenchman could once again remind the world why he’s one of football’s brightest stars.
