Kylian Mbappe participated in only one pre-season game for Real Madrid this summer, and it was the clash against Schalke at the weekend.
Starting that game as his first appearance under Jose Mourinho, the Frenchman took just six minutes to get on the scoresheet once more.
The player is coming off a sensational World Cup, where he led France from the front and finished as the top scorer in the event. Back at Real Madrid, he immediately elevated the attack and returned to the scoresheet in his only pre-season appearance ahead of the new season.
Mbappe has returned hungry
As reported by Diario AS in a recent update, sources from within the club make it clear that a ‘new’ Mbappe has returned after the World Cup and the summer vacation.
Mbappe was on the scoresheet against Schalke. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
The player has arrived in great physical shape and is ready for any game-state from the get-go. His physical condition is said to be sensational according to the club.
More importantly, the player has returned with a real hunger for titles and wins this time around, possibly owing to the disappointment left in him by the World Cup. His hunger and desire, needless to say, only make him a more frightening opponent.
A hunt for titles
Kylian Mbappe left PSG for Real Madrid in the summer of 2024, and it has become a common storyline for the player to be reminded that his former club have won every UEFA Champions League title since his departure.
Mbappe is in great physical condition. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the Real Madrid forward has nothing to show as a major trophy won with the club as the first team has not won a single major title in the past two seasons.
That situation was the reason Jose Mourinho was urgently called back to the club, and Mbappe will look to change the narrative under the new manager.
With a fresh squad reinforced by new signings, Real Madrid have a formidable team this time around and will look to gun down every title they compete for. The Frenchman will be crucial on that front, not only as a striker but as a leader.