I’m back on track after difficult years, says forward
Kylian Mbappe has said he is in a much better place since moving to Real Madrid, describing life in the Spanish capital as calmer and better for his mental health than at Paris Saint-Germain.
According to the 26-year-old, the move to Madrid has helped him “get back on track” after some “difficult years”.
“I’ve adapted well I think,” Mbappe told reporters. “Life in Madrid is more relaxed. It’s not a criticism of France. The lifestyle is different. Things are less hectic in Madrid than in Paris.”
Mbappe joined Real Madrid on a free transfer in June 2024 after seven years at PSG, where he became the club’s all-time top scorer with 256 goals and won six Ligue 1 titles.
Although his start in Spain was slow at first, he quickly picked up and scored 44 times in all competitions in that debut season, winning the Pichichi Trophy.
He has followed it up with 14 goals in 10 matches this season. He also scored twice in France’s two qualifying matches in September, leaving him six goals away from breaking Olivier Giroud’s record as highest goalscorer for the national side.
“No career is linear,” said Mbappe. There can be difficult years, when you have to endure a bit more hardship.
“But I think that’s part of the evolution of a man and a player.
“I’ve managed to get myself back on track, to get my head and my legs back in the right place. But it’s only the start of the season. It’s only October, there’s still a lot to play for and there will be a lot to show.”
