'We like it!' - Kylian Mbappe gives his verdict after Real Madrid's attack gets new superhero-themed nickname on the back of humiliating Man City

World Cup winner Mbappe became the latest ‘Galactico’ at Santiago Bernabeu when completing a move from Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent in the summer of 2024. He took a while to settle in new surroundings, with the Frenchman now being asked to operate as a central striking No.9.

He has, however, taken his goal tally for the season to 28 through 38 appearances after netting a stunning hat-trick against Manchester City in the second leg of their heavyweight Champions League knockout phase play-off – keeping the Blancos on course to defend their European crown.

Mbappe is starring alongside Brazil internationals Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, while Jude Bellingham is another Ballon d’Or contender that possesses match-altering ability. When functioning at their best as a unit, said quartet can become almost unplayable.

They have been billed as the “Fantastic Four”, in a nod to the superhero team from Marvel comics, and Mbappe has told Movistar of that moniker: “We like it, yes. I think we are playing very well, we are playing better every day and with the sacrifice that the manager asks of us.”

Carlo Ancelotti gives his attacking unit the freedom to rotate as they see fit, with nobody restricted to one set position, despite having defined roles within the initial starting XI and tactical blueprint. The ability to mix things up keeps opponents on their toes and makes Real’s fabled foursome even more “fantastic”.