Ancelotti believes Mbappe can mirror Ronaldo’s legacy at Real Madrid

Carlo Ancelotti believes Kylian Mbappe has the potential to replicate Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy at Real Madrid after the French star matched Ronaldo’s goal-scoring record.

Mbappe, who secured his long-awaited move to Madrid last summer, has been in scintillating form during his debut La Liga campaign, netting 22 goals in 27 league appearances.

In addition to his domestic performances, Mbappe has also shone in the Champions League, scoring seven goals and playing a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s progression to the quarter-finals.

Mbappe has netted 22 goals in 27 league appearances for Real Madrid

His credentials were further bolstered on Saturday when he scored a brace against Leganes, including a dramatic winner that sealed a 3-2 comeback victory.

With those two goals, Mbappe has now equalled Ronaldo’s tally of 33 goals in his debut season for Madrid – an impressive achievement.

This highlights his swift adaptation to Spanish football after a challenging start to his time at the club.

Speaking to reporters, Ancelotti said: “It’s difficult but I wish Mbappe to match Ronaldo at Real Madrid for a long time, of course.

“He has the quality to make it, I hope he becomes a legend of this club. He can do it. Cristiano’s impact here was more than goals.”

The France international is now just four goals away from breaking Ivan Zamorano’s record for the most goals in a debut season at Real Madrid.

The Chilean striker netted 37 times during the 1992-93 campaign, a milestone Mbappe could surpass before the season ends.

Mbappe will return to action in Real Madrid’s upcoming Copa del Rey quarter-final second leg against Real Sociedad on Tuesday. Ancelotti’s side hold a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg.