Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence would have been the perfect addition to the already grand presentation of Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe at the Santiago Bernabeu on July 16.
The French star was finally signed by Los Blancos after spending six seasons with Paris Saint-Germain.
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Kylian’s presentation featured some of the most notable figures in the Los Blancos circle, such as Zinedine Zidane, Florentino Perez, and José Martínez ‘Pirri.’
Many fans anticipated a surprise appearance from Ronaldo during the presentation of one of his biggest admirers in the football world.
According to a report by Onda Cero journalist Alberto Pereiro, Cristiano Ronaldo was invited by Real Madrid to attend Kylian Mbappe’s unveiling ceremony.
Pereiro stated (via Bernabeu Digital): “Real Madrid invited Cristiano Ronaldo to Mbappé’s presentation and he did not want to come.”
The Portuguese forward reportedly declined the invitation due to another engagement that prevented him from attending the event at the Bernabeu.
Some fans speculate that Ronaldo’s association with Nike is the main reason for his absence. Nike sponsors both Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo, whereas Real Madrid is predominantly sponsored by Nike’s rival, Adidas.
“Uno Dos Tres Hala Madrid!” exclaimed Kylian Mbappe during his elaborate presentation at the crowded Santiago Bernabeu.
Immediately after the countdown, the entire stadium erupted in unison, joining the Frenchman in chanting ‘Hala Madrid.’
Longtime Madridistas will remember something similar from fifteen years ago.
A 24-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo recited the same chant in front of a stadium full of Real Madrid fans at the Santiago Bernabeu during his presentation in 2009. Kylian Mbappe was just a ten-year-old boy at that time.
Mbappe then delivered an emotional speech during his presentation, expressing his gratitude to the club and Florentino Perez.
“My dream came true today. I’m happy, I’m really happy. It feels incredible to be here. I’ve slept many years dreaming of Real Madrid and now it’s reality. I see my mom in tears, it’s an incredible day for me. Let me say thanks to Florentino Perez,” commented Mbappe (via India Today).
Kylian’s five-year contract with the Santiago Bernabeu club will reportedly earn him around $15 million per season.
Additionally, he will receive a staggering $100 million signing bonus from the La Liga giants.
