Amid growing rumors about tension inside the Real Madrid dressing room, Kylian Mbappé has decided to speak openly about his relationship with Vinícius Jr. and the inspiration he has drawn from Cristiano Ronaldo since arriving at the club. The French striker did so in an interview with Universo Valdano, where he also reflected on his adaptation to the team and life in Madrid.

How is the relationship between Mbappé and Vinícius?

Mbappé was quick to dismiss any talk of conflict with the Brazilian star.

“I have a very good relationship with Vinícius, much better this year because we’ve gotten to know each other a lot more. He’s a great player and a really good person,” said the Frenchman.

The France captain explained that rumors of rivalry often emerge simply because both are high-profile figures:

“That happens in Spain, France, or England. Two famous players on the same team sell a lot of papers.”

Mbappé made it clear that both he and Vinícius share the same ambition — to keep Real Madrid at the top of world football.

“We know people will talk about us for everything, but we have the same goal: to help Real Madrid win titles. To do that, we both need to be at our best.”

What role does Cristiano Ronaldo play in his Real Madrid journey?

Without drawing comparisons, Mbappé admitted that Cristiano Ronaldo has been a major influence and revealed that the Portuguese legend has personally advised him.

“Cristiano has always been a model, an example for me. I’m lucky to talk to him and get advice from him. He’s helped me a lot.”

The French forward, who has now spent a year and a half wearing the white shirt, dreams of leaving an impact as powerful as the club’s all-time top scorer.

“At Real Madrid, Cristiano is number one. He achieved incredible things. People still dream about him — but I want to make my own path. I hope one day they dream about me too.”

How has Mbappé adapted to life in Madrid?

Mbappé also opened up about his personal experience since arriving in the Spanish capital. He shared that the club initially asked him to keep a low profile, though he quickly felt embraced by the fans.

“It feels like I’m Spanish because of the affection I receive. It really surprised me. When I arrived, the club asked me to stay home and keep things quiet, but now I see that privacy is very respected here.”

Confident and mature, Mbappé seems to have found the balance he was looking for in this new chapter. In a Real Madrid team aiming for greatness, his growing connection with Vinícius Jr. and admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo could mark the beginning of an era as iconic as it is historic.