Would a move to Real Madrid or Liverpool suit Kylian Mbappe more?

Paul Macdonald

• Updated: 20 May 2021 11:26 BST
• 3 min read

Kylian Mbappe has become one of the most sought-after talents in world football, cementing his status as the next generation’s greatest hope with a hat-trick at the Camp Nou in midweek. But, with his contract at current club Paris Saint-Germain set to expire in the summer of 2022, the wonderkid could be about to embark on the next chapter of his already illustrious career.

According to reports in L’Equipe, the 22-year-old will only consider a transfer to two clubs should he decide to depart the Parc des Princes at the end of the season. A transfer to Real Madrid has been described as a ‘childhood dream’ of Mbappe’s by the French outlet, while Liverpool owner John W Henry reportedly left such a good impression on Mbappe and his family back in 2017 that the Frenchman is contemplating joining Jurgen Klopp at Anfield.

A choice between the reigning Spanish and English champions, who have been crowned the European champions 19 times between them, is never a bad situation to be in for a young footballer, although it makes the decision over his future destination all the more difficult.

Despite his tender age, Mbappe has already won four Ligue 1 titles, two French Cups and two French League Cups to go alongside his starring role in France’s 2018 World Cup victory. The pacey forward has a taste for trophies, and ultimately, his preferred move could hinge on who he believes will lead him to more silverware, especially in the continental competitions.

Before Bayern Munich’s triumph last season, Madrid and Liverpool had shared the last four Champions League titles between them, with Zinedine Zidane’s charges defeating the Reds in the 2018 showpiece event. With the pair boasting incredibly impressive reputations in European encounters, Mbappe will surely be tempted by both sides.

However, the two teams are currently at different stages in their development. Although Liverpool are struggling this season, currently finding themselves outside of the top four in the Premier League standings, it’s hard to see their downturn in fortunes lasting. The squad certainly needs some fresh faces, but once the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez return to fitness, Liverpool will be ready for another assault on the top-flight summit.

Klopp addressed rumours regarding his immediate future in a recent press conference, stating: “I don’t need a break,” and that the Liverpool fans, “Don’t have to worry,” about him. The German manager’s contract doesn’t expire until 2024, and Mbappe could become the flag bearer for Liverpool’s second coming under Klopp’s leadership.

Kylian Mbappe’s stats at PSG

Nevertheless, a move to Madrid is always tempting for any top player. The lure of the Bernabeu and the famous white jersey is many young star’s dream, and the French connection between Zidane and Mbappe may prove to be pivotal in this potential deal.

Success is never guaranteed in football, no matter how big the club is, but with Barcelona in apparent turmoil off the pitch, and well below their best on it, Los Blancos may never have a better time to assert some domestic dominance. City rivals Atletico Madrid are leading the La Liga title charge this season, but the addition of Mbappe would tip the balance back in Real’s favour.

Zidane faces a tough task to transform this ageing Madrid outfit back into the European force they once were, though. World-class operators such as Sergio Ramos, Luka Modric, Marcelo and Karim Benzema are either in or fast approaching the twilight years of their career, and the likes of Isco and Eden Hazard, who were supposed to pick up the mantle, have failed to produce their best form over the last 18 months.

Mbappe would bring both clubs new hope and ambition of continued success at home and abroad, but the red shirt of Liverpool would surely be the one best suited to the sports next superstar should he seek pastures new.