Real Madrid News
Former Ballon d’Or winner declares Real Madrid star is on ‘a whole different level’
Kylian Mbappe continues to strengthen his case as the world’s best player, and the Real Madrid superstar has now received glowing praise from former Ballon d’Or winner George Weah following another outstanding display at the FIFA World Cup.
The Kylian Mbappe Real Madrid story has been one of dominance over the last few years, but the French captain has taken his game to another level during the ongoing tournament.
His latest performance came in France’s commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden in the Round of 32, a match in which Mbappe once again showcased why many consider him the benchmark for modern forwards.
Mbappe continues sensational World Cup form
Mbappe’s World Cup display against Sweden was another reminder of the forward’s incredible consistency on the biggest stage.
In the match, the Real Madrid forward was virtually unstoppable, scoring twice, while also striking the post and having another goal ruled out for offside in what was arguably his most complete performance of the tournament so far.
With six goals in the competition, Mbappe has established himself as one of the leading contenders for the Golden Boot.
More impressively, he has now amassed 18 goals across all World Cup tournaments despite being only 27 years old.
France will now head into the Round of 16 with renewed confidence, and much of that optimism stems from the devastating form of their star player.
Weah believes Mbappe is in a different category
During a recent media appearance on El Chiringuito TV, Weah, a former Ballon d’Or winner, was asked to assess the France captain’s current level.
The former Paris Saint-Germain striker did not hesitate in his response.
“Mbappe? He’s a phenomenon. He’s a very good player and a prolific scorer.”
Weah was also asked about the growing Mbappe vs Lamine Yamal debate, with many fans wondering whether Barcelona’s teenage sensation can already be considered among the world’s elite.
“Well, Lamine Yamal is just a young kid, as you know. You shouldn’t… …you shouldn’t compare him to Mbappe.
“Mbappé… he’s a phenomenon. Lamine is still developing and growing. All I hope is that Lamine continues on his path.
“But you can’t compare him to Mbappe. Everyone knows that Mbappé is on a whole different level (far superior),” he concluded.
In what will come as a pleasing development for fans, Fabrizio Romano reports that Real Madrid forward Rodrygo could make a comeback from his injury earlier than expected.
The 25-year-old Brazilian international has been out of action since March after suffering an ACL injury during a La Liga game against Getafe.
Due to the complete rupture of the ACL, coupled with associated meniscus damage, it was suggested that the attacker was staring at a lengthy time out on the sidelines and might not return until 2027.
In fact, the forward’s father, Eric Goes, recently stated in an interview that the Real Madrid ace could be back in February next year, just before the business end of the campaign.
Rodrygo could be back in December
However, as per the update from Romano, Rodrygo’s comeback could happen well before that expected date.
Indeed, if things continue to progress at the current rate, the 25-year-old attacker might return to action in December or by January 2027 at the latest.
This will come as a welcome boost for Jose Mourinho & co., considering that Rodrygo is a valuable player for the team.
Even though he had endured a tough spell prior to his form, the Brazilian’s versatility, work rate off the ball, and eye for a goal make him an asset.
Rodrygo eager to be back at his best
The update from Romano further states that Rodrygo feels very grateful to Real Madrid for all the help and support they have given him during this difficult phase of his career.
As such, the Brazilian international has made it a mission to return to action in the best shape possible and make an impact from the get-go.
The attacker has only recently begun working on the pitch with the ball indicating the significant progress he has made on the road to recovery.
And, if there are no setbacks, Real Madrid could recover one of their ace attackers before the end of the current year.
So far in his career, Rodrygo has made 297 appearances for Real Madrid, scoring 71 goals. He has a contract with the club until 2028.
