Kylian Mbappé’s 2024 was a rollercoaster of triumphs and tribulations. From his high-profile move to Real Madrid and struggles on and off the field to accusations that rocked his reputation, the French football star faced unprecedented challenges. Now, as the year concludes, Mbappé finds solace in Dubai, preparing for a fresh start in 2025.
A year of upheaval: From PSG exit to Real Madrid struggles
For Kylian Mbappé, 2024 marked a pivotal year in his career. After months of speculation, he officially departed Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he spent seven years, to join Real Madrid in June. The move fulfilled his long-held dream of playing for Los Blancos, but it came at a significant cost. His exit from PSG was marred by strained relations with club president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, a reduction in playing time under coach Luis Enrique, and a farewell that lacked celebration from fans and the club.
Mbappé’s transition to Real Madrid was far from seamless. Despite his undeniable talent, the French striker struggled to adapt to the demands of La Liga. Criticized for inconsistent performances during key matches and his failure to deliver in high-stakes moments, Mbappé faced intense scrutiny from the Spanish media. His debut season with Real Madrid saw flashes of brilliance but also moments of frustration, including a string of missed penalties and subpar displays in marquee games.
Off-field controversies: Legal battles and national team tensions
Adding to his on-field challenges, Mbappé found himself embroiled in controversies off the pitch. A high-profile legal dispute with PSG over €55 million in unpaid wages and bonuses dominated headlines throughout the year. Although the French judiciary eventually ruled in his favor, the tension between Mbappé and his former club remains palpable.
In October, Mbappé became the subject of a Swedish investigation into an alleged assault during a trip to Stockholm, which coincided with a French national team match. While the case was ultimately dropped due to insufficient evidence, the media frenzy surrounding the incident further strained his public image. Meanwhile, his commitment to the French national team was questioned after several absences and rumored tensions with teammates, including goalkeeper Mike Maignan. French head coach Didier Deschamps even hinted at potentially stripping Mbappé of the captaincy, highlighting a year of waning support from within the squad.
Moments of redemption: A promising end to a difficult year
Despite the turmoil, Mbappé showed resilience as the year progressed. After a slow start at Real Madrid, he began rediscovering his form in the final months of 2024. With 14 goals and 4 assists across all competitions, he contributed significantly to Real Madrid’s campaign, including a standout performance in the Intercontinental Cup final, where he scored and helped secure the title for his club.
Additionally, Mbappé’s performance in December saw him regain some of the trust and admiration he once commanded. His decisive contributions in Real Madrid’s 4-2 victory over Sevilla and a critical Champions League win against Atalanta offered fans a glimpse of the player they had been waiting to see. These displays not only helped end the year on a high note but also gave Mbappé momentum heading into 2025.
Recharging in Dubai: Preparing for a new chapter
As the hectic year wound down, Mbappé took advantage of the winter break to recharge in Dubai. Known for its luxurious amenities and warm climate, the city has become a popular vacation destination for athletes and celebrities. On December 29, the French forward shared glimpses of his time in the Middle East on Instagram, showcasing dune excursions, private jet travel with his brother Ethan, and moments of relaxation.
“Enjoying the sun in Dubai,” Mbappé captioned one of his posts, signaling a much-needed respite from the pressures of the football world. His return to the pitch is scheduled for January 3, when Real Madrid faces Valencia in a postponed La Liga fixture. With a fresh mindset and renewed energy, Mbappé aims to solidify his position as a leader at Real Madrid and regain his standing as one of the best players in the world.
The road ahead: Redemption and legacy
As 2024 draws to a close, Kylian Mbappé stands at a crossroads. The challenges he faced this year have tested his mental and physical fortitude like never before. Yet, they have also provided him with opportunities to grow and evolve both as a player and as a person. With his sights set on the remainder of the season, Mbappé’s focus will be on proving his worth to Real Madrid fans, rebuilding his reputation on the international stage, and pursuing the trophies that have eluded him thus far.
For Mbappé, 2025 represents a chance to turn the page on a tumultuous chapter and write a new story defined by success and resilience. As he steps back onto the pitch, all eyes will be on the French superstar to see if he can reclaim his place among football’s elite and cement his legacy as one of the sport’s greats.
