Kylian Mbappe has insisted he does not want to be compared to Cristiano Ronaldo as he prepares to launch his Real Madrid career.

Mbappe finally sealed his move to Madrid this summer, leaving Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer to secure the switch, with many expecting the Frenchman to achieve the kind of success enjoyed by Ronaldo during his time with Los Blancos between 2009 and 2018.

Despite the high expectations surrounding his arrival, Mbappe insists he is not trying to copy Ronaldo and is instead looking to write his own story at Madrid.

“I like to admire great players, there will never be another Cristiano Ronaldo,” he said. “He shaped football, inspired generations, scored goals and won cups. He knew how to reinvent himself. He is one of a kind.”

“I am following my own path, my dream of playing for Real Madrid is becoming a reality. I hope to leave my mark on football and be unique at Real Madrid, but I am not writing the next chapter in its history.

Ronaldo has enjoyed great success in Madrid / Power Sport Images/GettyImages

“His resume speaks for itself and I have total respect for him.”

Mbappe will meet Ronaldo in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals on Friday night, with Real Madrid’s latest star relishing the chance to come face to face with Ronaldo again.

“Over time, I was lucky enough to be around him, to meet him and to know him,” Mbappé explained. “We are still in touch. He follows my life, gives me advice.

“Playing against him is always an honour. No matter what happens after, he will remain a football legend. Of course, we hope he will not be so happy and that we will reach the semi-finals.”