Madrid Calm, Mighty France: Mbappé Sparks a New Chapter in 2025-26

Mbappé's Madrid Calm Fuels a Roaring Start

Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid's talisman and France captain, is sharing the secret behind his hot start to the 2025-26 season: a blend of hard work, adaptation, and a city that fits his tempo. He has already tallied 16 goals in 12 appearances across club and country this term, underscoring how swiftly he has settled into life in the Spanish capital since his free‑transfer from Paris Saint-Germain a year ago.

France Ready for Azerbaijan as Mbappé Embraces Madrid Lifestyle

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday ahead of Friday's European qualifier with Azerbaijan, Mbappé said there is no fixed rhythm for any player and that tough seasons can come with growth. He added that life in Madrid feels more relaxed for him—not a critique of France, but a lifestyle shift that suits his pace of play and mood.

“I've adapted well,” he said, noting that the season is still early and there will be many matches ahead. “I'm feeling good, I'm building back my fitness, and we have a long road ahead.”

Minutes later, Mbappé confirmed his international tally stands at 52 goals in 92 appearances after scoring twice in recent wins over Ukraine and Iceland, moving him to second on France's all-time scoring list behind Olivier Giroud's 57. He also acknowledged a minor ankle issue on arrival at the France camp after Real Madrid's clash with Villarreal but insisted he is fully prepared to face Azerbaijan.

France currently sit top of Group D with six points, ahead of Iceland on three and with Ukraine and Azerbaijan tied at one. The D squad will host Azerbaijan at the Parc des Princes on Friday, with another win potentially sealing qualification ahead of a clash with Iceland in Reykjavik later this month.

Mbappé's Career Journey

Mbappé began his career in Monaco before a 2017 move to Paris Saint-Germain for a then-record fee of around €180 million, where he collected multiple domestic titles. He joined Real Madrid on a free transfer in 2024, scoring 40 goals in 42 appearances and lifting the European Super Cup. For France, he has 52 goals in 92 caps and was part of the World Cup-winning side in 2018 and the Euro 2021 champions, later becoming France's captain in 2023 after the era of Lloris and Varane.

With Pogba's absence from the limelight and Griezmann and Giroud having retired from international duty, Mbappé remains central to France's plans. He stressed his readiness to play and train ahead of Friday's match, as the France squad continues to push for a place at Euro 2026.

Bottom line: Mbappé in Madrid looks less like a vacation and more like a weapon with a relaxed vibe. If you thought the season would slow him down, think again—the sniper’s smile is alive and well on the pitch.