Kylian Mbappé was introduced as a Real Madrid player on Tuesday, drawing a crowd of tens of thousands at the Bernabéu, where he pledged to “give everything” for the LaLiga champions.
The 25-year-old signed a five-year contract with the club after departing Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer. He completed a medical examination on Tuesday morning before heading to Madrid’s Valdebebas training facility to officially sign his new contract.
Afterward, he arrived at the Bernabéu, where fans had lined up for hours to witness the presentation, which began around 12:30 p.m. local time.
“Wow. It’s amazing to be here,” Mbappé expressed in Spanish. “I’ve dreamed for many years of playing for Real Madrid, and today that dream has come true.”
Real Madrid announced last month that Mbappé had committed to joining the club, finally fulfilling their long-standing pursuit of the star player after coming close in 2017 and 2022.
“I want to start by thanking the president [Florentino Pérez],” Mbappé added. “He believed in me from the very beginning. A lot has happened, but I’m truly grateful. I appreciate everyone who helped me make this move possible. I know it wasn’t easy, but now I’m here as a Real Madrid player.”
The 85,000-seat Bernabéu was expected to be at full capacity, with tickets—offered for free to club members—selling out, although there were a few empty seats.
Mbappé and Pérez were joined on stage by Madrid’s honorary president, Pirri, and club legend Zinedine Zidane, who had invited Mbappé for a trial in 2012.
“Congratulations on achieving your dream,” Pérez said. “I know how proud your family is. You fell in love with Real Madrid as a child and visited this stadium at age 13. You’ll always remember that day in December 2012 when Zidane invited you to Real Madrid City.
“Your passion for Real Madrid and connection to this club have helped you overcome every challenge to be here as a new player. You are here today because it’s what you wanted. Your determination has triumphed over all difficulties. Thank you for your commitment to wearing this shirt.”
Earlier, Mbappé arrived at the Sanitas clinic in La Moraleja, a prestigious Madrid neighborhood, for his medical exam just before 9 a.m. local time.
Doctors were set to assess his broken nose, which he sustained during France’s opening match at Euro 2024.
It remains unclear whether the injury will need additional treatment or surgery. Following his presentation to fans, Mbappé will hold his first press conference as a Real Madrid player.