It began years ago with flirtation and courtship. A presidential intervention and Qatari wealth prolonged it. But an explosive 2023 letter reignited it. And throughout 2024, a crescendo of rumors and reports, each more firm than the last, turned a likely outcome into a foregone conclusion. Mbappé had decided to leave Paris Saint Germain; then he’d communicated his decision to the club; then he reached an agreement with Real Madrid; then he announced his impending departure. He’d even lined up his new house in Spain.
That he was heading to Madrid became the worst-kept secret in all of sports, one that loomed over him and two entire countries.
Now, though, it is simply a match made in footballing heaven.
It’s the rare compatible marriage between superstar and superclub.
And, with contracts now officially signed, and official announcements to follow soon, it’s a childhood dream come true.