Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid, a first-rate footballer who debuted in the professional league in 2015 with AS Monaco, has not only built an illustrious career but has also become a source of inspiration for his peers and younger players. Despite being only 26, Mbappe’s impressive tenure, including an eight-year stint with Paris Saint-Germain before his move to the Spanish team last summer, has left an indelible mark on the younger generation of footballers.
Among those who look up to Mbappe is Athletic Club’s Nico Williams. Having made a name for himself with a remarkable performance for Spain at UEFA Euro 2024, Williams recently opened up about his admiration for Mbappe in a conversation with France Football, as reported by Le10Sport. The Spanish footballer finds a kindred spirit in Mbappe, as they both share a preference for playing on the left side.
Williams was quoted saying, “Kylian, like me, also plays on the left side, although he has the versatility to play up front. His dribbling skills, the way he moves, and his execution style are something I deeply admire. I thoroughly enjoy watching him play, especially now as I am focusing on being more than just a skilled dribbler.”
Furthermore, Williams is not just a passive admirer. The young talent is keen on incorporating aspects of Mbappe’s playing style into his own game. Williams detailed, “I admire how Kylian positions himself on the pitch, the way he moves around, and how he manages to stand out. These are qualities I strive to emulate in my game, and I’ve noticed positive results.”
The admiration and respect for Mbappe from one of the rising stars of football underscores the Frenchman’s significant influence in the world of football. His ability to inspire new talents like Williams to strive for excellence further enhances his legacy in the sport. His decade-long journey from a debutant at Monaco to a star player at Real Madrid continues to motivate younger players worldwide.