Kylian Mbappe has opened up on his close bond with Cristiano Ronaldo, describing the Real Madrid legend as a genuine friend who has provided vital support during his transition to life in the Spanish capital. Despite facing heavy criticism for his recent form, the Frenchman remains grateful for the guidance offered by his childhood hero.

Mbappe has never hidden his admiration for Ronaldo, with the famous images of his bedroom walls plastered with posters of the Portuguese star becoming part of football folklore. However, the 27-year-old has now revealed that their relationship has evolved far beyond that of a fan and his idol. In a candid interview with Vanity Fair, the French forward explained that they are now friends.

Speaking about their connection, Mbappe said: “He is a friend now. It’s so great when people you idolise when you’re young become your friends. We used to talk a lot, and he helped me in my first year at Madrid, because he knows it very well. We have a wonderful relationship and I’m very happy with it.”

While the off-field support from Ronaldo is strong, the on-field reality for Mbappe is becoming increasingly difficult. Real Madrid have endured a disappointing campaign, and as the club faces a second straight trophyless season, the finger of blame is being pointed at the marquee 2024 signing. Despite respectable individual goal-scoring tallies, many critics argue that the team’s overall dynamism and work rate have suffered since the ex-Paris Saint-Germain star’s arrival on a free transfer.

The situation has reached a boiling point with fans, leading to a massive online petition calling for his departure that has garnered millions of signatures. This digital protest reflects a growing frustration among the Madridista fan base, who expected the World Cup winner to spark a new era of dominance rather than contribute to a perceived tactical imbalance that has left the team looking rigid and predictable in high-stakes matches.