Kylian Mbappe replicated Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic badge kiss when he was officially unveiled as Real Madrid’s latest superstar signing.
Madrid sent shockwaves throughout the footballing world when they completed the free transfer of the Frenchman last month.
A move years in the making, Mbappe has finally moved to Spain following the expiration of his contract at Paris Saint-Germain, signing a five-year deal with the champions of LaLiga.
Madrid welcomed him to the club in stunning fashion on Tuesday by organising a special presentation at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The event was sold out by fans who got their hands on free tickets, with an estimated 80,000 in attendance at their iconic stadium.
Mbappe was met with loud cheers when he made his way onto the hallowed turf and presented in front of his new, adoring supporters.
He wasted no time in making a good impression, with the World Cup winner kissing the Madrid badge on his shirt.
It’s a gesture that club legend Ronaldo made iconic at his own presentation in 2009 when he signed from Manchester United.
Mbappe also outstretched his arms in the air when speaking to the fans, encouraging the 80,000-strong crowd to join him in a chant of, ‘UNO, DOS, TRES, HALA MADRID’ – something his fellow superstar also did 15 years ago.
The 25-year-old seems destined for a hugely successful career at Madrid, one that could match or even surpass Ronaldo’s.
Ronaldo won two LaLiga titles, four Champions Leagues and various other major honours during his nine-year stint at the club.
Mbappe already has seven Ligue 1 titles and multiple cup honours to his name, as well as World Cup glory with France, but is yet to taste European success.
This could very much change though as Carlo Ancelotti’s side the record 15-time Champions League winners and reigning champions.
Madrid add Mbappe to an already star-studded squad that won the treble last season, including fellow forwards Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo.
Jude Bellingham could also be set to play behind him from next season onwards to help Madrid boast an incredibly talented attack.
Mbappe is now just weeks away from potentially making his competitive debut in the Super Cup final against Atalanta on August 14, with millions of fans around the world set to tune in.
