Cristiano Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner and current Al Nassr forward, has opened up about his admiration for Kylian Mbappé, his son’s cheeky football debates, and his belief that he could help the French superstar unlock his full potential as a centre-forward.
In a wide-ranging interview with a French sports outlet, Ronaldo offered a rare, intimate glimpse into his home life and his professional assessment of Real Madrid’s recent signing—whom he says is the player most similar to himself in world football.
The Son Who Speaks His Mind
Ronaldo recounted a touching and humorous exchange with his 13-year-old son, Mateo, who has become an avid fan of football highlight compilations on YouTube.
“Mateo watches videos of Mbappé, Bellingham, and Camavinga every day,” Ronaldo said. “He turns to me and says, ‘Dad, Mbappé is better than you.’ I tell him, ‘But I’ve scored more goals.’ Then I remind him that Mbappé missed a penalty in a big game… and without missing a beat, Mateo replies, ‘You missed one too.’”
The story highlights not only the playful rivalry between father and son but also the shifting generational perspective, where young fans now compare today’s stars to legends of the past—and aren’t afraid to challenge their fathers.
The Mbappé Problem at Real Madrid
Ronaldo, who himself spent nine historic years at Real Madrid (2009–2018), scoring 450 goals and winning four Champions Leagues, turned his attention to Mbappé’s current struggles. Since joining Los Blancos in 2024, Mbappé has shown flashes of brilliance but has often looked uncomfortable playing as the central striker—a role he has repeatedly stated he does not prefer.
“He is not a traditional No. 9 who stays inside the penalty box. He needs to drift, to receive the ball in space, to run at defenders,” Ronaldo explained. “If I were at Real Madrid, I would teach him how to play that position. Not by changing his instincts, but by refining his movement and decision-making in the final third.”
Ronaldo, who transitioned from a winger to an elite centre-forward later in his career, believes Mbappé can make the same evolution. “He has the pace, the finishing, and the mentality. But he needs guidance. I was lucky to have great coaches. He has Ancelotti now, but sometimes it helps to hear from someone who walked that path.”
‘He’s the Closest to Me’
Perhaps the most striking admission was Ronaldo’s comparison of Mbappé to himself. “I watch him and I see me—the explosive runs, the confidence, the hunger to dominate matches. He is the player whose style is closest to mine in world football today. We are very similar.”
This is a significant endorsement from a player often considered the greatest goalscorer of all time. It also reflects Ronaldo’s desire to mentor the next generation, even from afar. While he did not explicitly suggest a coaching role, he indicated that he would be open to offering advice if Mbappé ever reached out.
Mbappé’s Current Season
The 2025/26 season has been a mixed one for Mbappé. While he has scored 17 goals in La Liga, his performances have been inconsistent, and critics have pointed to a lack of fluidity in Real Madrid’s attack. Some pundits have questioned whether he can ever fully replace Karim Benzema’s influence as a target man.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has defended Mbappé, insisting that the player is still adapting. However, Ronaldo’s comments add a new layer to the debate, coming from someone who successfully made the positional shift that Mbappé is now being asked to make.
A Legacy of Mentorship
Ronaldo has frequently spoken about his desire to see young players thrive. At 41, he continues to perform at a high level in the Saudi Pro League, scoring 32 goals in 34 appearances last season. He has also taken on a fatherly role at Al Nassr, mentoring local talents.
“Football is not just about my goals. It’s about what I can give back,” he said. “If Kylian ever wants to sit down and talk—about movement, about positioning, about handling pressure—my door is open.”
What’s Next?
Mbappé, who has not publicly responded to Ronaldo’s comments, is set to face a crucial Champions League campaign with Real Madrid. The Frenchman has often cited Ronaldo as an idol, so the veteran’s words may carry significant weight.
For now, the football world is left to appreciate the bond between two generational talents—and the charming honesty of a 13-year-old boy who refuses to let his legendary father win an argument.
