'Kylian Mbappe is like a ketchup bottle' - Former Real Madrid striker explains France star's slow start after PSG move

World Cup winner Mbappe did find the target on his Blancos debut, as he helped them to UEFA Super Cup glory against Atalanta, but then went three games without netting as the 2024-25 La Liga campaign got underway.

Mbappe bagged a brace last time out, in a match-winning performance against Real Betis, and Joselu has told AS of why it was always going to take a while for the newest ‘Galactico’ at Santiago Bernabeu to come good: “I don't pay much attention to it, honestly. I know what Madrid is like and I know the qualities that Mbappe has, and for me there is no doubt. Mbappe is like a bottle of ketchup. At first you press it and it doesn't come out, but then it all comes out at once. He has already scored two goals against Betis and he will continue to score. Mbappe will make history at Madrid, he and all those around him.”

Mbappe is filling the role for Real that Joselu took on last season, as he plundered 18 goals during a loan spell with the Blancos – including two crucial efforts in a Champions League semi-final win over Bayern Munich. He is now in Qatar with Al-Gharafa and has said of bidding farewell to the Bernabeu: “I have already said that Madrid is the best team in the world, but not only in terms of sport. Also in everything else, in the way players and their families are treated, in the details and in the day to day. I will always be grateful to Madrid, which is also the team of my heart. Wearing the white shirt has its greatness and carries its responsibility. The current Madrid not only has the best team, but also the best president.”

Joselu formed part of the Spain squad that savoured continental glory at Euro 2024. He is now watching on from afar as Mbappe and Co seek to successfully defend the Liga and Champions League crowns that Real secured last season.