Real Madrid icon backs Mbappe to break his long-standing record – “Capable of everything” | OneFootball

While Kylian Mbappe might not have had an easy start to life at Real Madrid, the French superstar has come into his own in recent months.

The 26-year-old forward has now netted 33 goals in his debut campaign for Los Blancos, matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal tally in his first year at the club.

Now on the horizon for Mbappe is the 37 goals accumulated by club icon Ivan Zamorano in his first-ever campaign for the Spanish capital club.

Zamorano backs Mbappe to overtake him

Zamorano, former Real Madrid striker and captain of the Chilean national team, spoke to MARCA in an interview, where he openly reflected on the possibility of Kylian Mbappe breaking his long-standing goal record at the club – and fully embraced the idea.

Zamorano still holds the record for the most goals scored in a debut season with Real Madrid: 37 goals across all competitions during the 1992/93 campaign, with Mbappe just four short of his tally.

Speaking to MARCA, Zamorano said:“For me it’s a source of pride that a player of Kylian’s calibre is about to beat my record. I think he’s going to surpass me and by a good number of goals soon.

“And maybe it’ll be today (Saturday) against Valencia! Because this kid is capable of everything.”

Ivan Zamorano happy that Mbappe could break his record. (Photo by Eva Marie Uzcategui/Getty Images)

Continuing, Zamorano added that it does not bother him that Mbappe would overtake his record, stating:

“I don’t care if Mbappe breaks my record because he’s a total crack. I feel very proud that underneath my name on the record are legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, the Brazilian Ronaldo, Benzema or Van Nistelrooy.

“Being above them in terms of goals in their first season is something I’ll keep with me for life.”

On his trademark ability to score headed goals, the Chilean said: “It’s true I had a special talent for heading. 40% of my goals came with my head.

“Maybe Kylian doesn’t have as much ability to position himself in the box and head it in, but he’s a crack in every way, and has many more qualities aside from not being a header specialist.”

When asked which current Madrid player reminds him of himself, Zamorano replied: “I think Fede Valverde. I love the passion the Uruguayan brings to every play, aside from the quality he has with the ball at his feet.

“For me he’s one of the souls of this Real Madrid, and I hope they win the four trophies they’ve got left. It won’t be easy, but Madrid always aims for everything.”