After much anticipation, Kylian Mbappé has officially signed with Real Madrid, marking the culmination of a transfer saga that has captured headlines for years.
The announcement comes after Mbappé declared last month his intention to depart Paris Saint-Germain once his contract expired at the end of the season.
In a statement, Mbappé expressed his elation, stating, “A dream come true, So happy and proud to join the club of my dream,” further adding, “Nobody can understand how excited I am right now. Can’t wait to see you, Madridistas, and thanks for your unbelievable support. ¡Hala Madrid!”
Sources close to the negotiations revealed to ESPN that Mbappé has inked a five-year contract with Real Madrid, valued at €15 million ($16.2 million) annually after taxes. Talks between the player and the club reportedly commenced as early as February.
Real Madrid, the reigning La Liga champions, clinched their 15th European Cup title with a victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley last Saturday.
Mbappé’s journey to Madrid has been a long one. In 2017, following a standout performance for Monaco, he nearly joined the Spanish giants before opting for PSG in a world-record deal for a teenager, amounting to €180 million ($195.4 million).
During his tenure at PSG, Mbappé established himself as the club’s captain and all-time leading scorer, securing six Ligue 1 titles in seven seasons. His achievements also include winning the 2018 World Cup with France and netting a memorable hat trick in the World Cup final against Lionel Messi’s Argentina in Qatar.
Despite a previous flirtation with Real Madrid two years ago, Mbappé ultimately extended his stay with PSG until June 2024, a decision he maintains he does not regret.
Joining a star-studded Madrid lineup, Mbappé will bolster an already formidable attack featuring talents like Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Mbappé will also aim to lead France to victory in the upcoming European Championship, seeking to secure the nation’s third title in the tournament set to take place in Germany this summer.
