Kylian Mbappe refusing to follow Cristiano Ronaldo's Real Madrid story

Kylian Mbappe has insisted he does not want to be compared to Cristiano Ronaldo as he prepares to kick-start his Real Madrid career.

Mbappe finally sealed his move to Madrid this summer, departing Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer to get the switch over the line, with many expecting the Frenchman to achieve the sort of success enjoyed by Ronaldo during his time with Los Blancos between 2009 and 2018.

Despite the high expectations surrounding his arrival, Mbappe insists he is not trying to replicate Ronaldo and is instead looking to write his own story in Madrid.

"I like to admire the great player, there will never be another Cristiano Ronaldo," he said. "He has shaped football, inspired generations, scored goals and won cups. He has known how to reinvent himself. He is one of a kind.

“I am following my own path; my dream of playing at Real Madrid is becoming a reality. I hope to make my mark on football and be one of a kind at Real Madrid, but I am not writing the next chapter of his story.

“His CV speaks for itself and I have total respect for him."

Mbappe will meet Ronaldo in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 on Friday evening, with Madrid's latest star relishing the chance to come up against Ronaldo once again.

"Over time I've been lucky to brush shoulders with him, meet him and get to know him," Mbappe explained. "We are still in contact. He keeps up with my life, gives me tips.

"Playing against him is always an honour. Regardless of what happens after he will be a football legend. Of course, we hope he is not so happy, and we are going to reach the semi-final."