Kylian Mbappe expressed his relief after finally scoring his first La Liga goal in Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Real Betis, Soccernet.football reports.
The Frenchman came under heavy criticism after enduring a three-match goal draught in the Spanish top flight. Mbappe finally quieted his doubters by hitting a brace for the defending champions in a crucial victory.
“It was a great moment,” he reflected. “I had been hoping to score in this legendary stadium, which I consider the best in the world.
“I feel great here. I’ve said it since I arrived, I’m happy. The fans and everyone at the club have shown me a lot of affection, even when I wasn’t scoring.
“For some players, three games without a goal might not seem like much, but for me, it felt like a lot. Still, the support from the club and the fans has been incredible. It gives me the confidence to give my all for this club and its badge.”
In addition, doubts as to whether Mbappe and Vinicius Junior could successfully play together were quickly laid to rest after the Brazilian handed his French counterpart the chance to score his second goal from the penalty spot.
Quizzed about his relationship with Vinicius, Mbappe said; “We are young and famous, it’s normal for people to talk about us.
“The coach says that we both take penalties. I don’t want to force things, that’s not my mentality.”
The 25-year-old World Cup winner also insisted that he was under no pressure to become the next Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid.
“I don’t feel the pressure,” he stressed. “I don’t think about Cristiano, with all due respect to him.
“Cristiano is my idol, yes. But no, I don’t want to follow anything. I don’t want that pressure. I want to be Kylian. I only have the pressure of having to adapt to the team.”
Sunday’s win sees Madrid stay four points behind fierce rivals Barcelona, who continue their perfect start to the season under Hansi Flick after a 7-0 thrashing of Real Valladolid.