Fabio Capello predicts Real Madrid star will win player of the tournament at Euro 2024
Former England manager Fabio Capelli has predicted Kylian Mbappe to emerge as Euro 2024's player of the tournament. The Italian was in conversation with Rio Ferdinand on his show, FIVE.
In a wide-ranging chat on 'Lounge of Legends' that covered his time as the Three Lions manager and his equation with Ferdinand, one of his former players, Capello was also questioned on who he thinks will be the start player at the ongoing Euros.
Without much hesitation, the 78-year-old said Mbappe. The Frenchman is currently playing his second European championship with France, but is yet to find the back of the net.
After drawing a blank in four appearances at Euro 2020, the Real Madrid forward's drought continued as he was unable to score against Austria in their opener on Monday, June 17.
However, personally, Capello wanted to see an England player shine, particularly Jude Bellingham, another Real Madrid player. Speaking on the podcast with Ferdinand, he said:
"I think Mbappe. I wante to see Bellingham because I remember in my mind the Bellingham that started with Real Madrid..six months, fantastic!"
He further added that Bellingham is incredible, but could now be knackered following a long and exhaustive club season with Los Blancos.
"...incredible player, now I think he's a little bit tired...I don't know."
Joining from Borussia Dortmund last summer, Bellingham instantly established himself as a key player for Madrid. He accrued 42 appearances in all competitions for the side, scoring 23 goals and making 13 assists while lifting La Liga and Champions League titles.
As for Mbappe, the World Cup winner wrapped up his time at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) by winning his sixth Ligue 1 title. He bagged 44 goals in total, including 27 in the league, more than any other player.
Unfortunately for France, he went off with a bloody nose during their clash with Austria. According to ESPN, Mbappe could now miss their crunch encounter with the Netherlands on Friday, June 21.
Bellingham-Mbappe partnership can propel Real Madrid to greater heights
After years of speculations, Kylian Mbappe's transfer to Real Madrid finally materialized this summer. The Frenchman joined the European champions on a free transfer and will begin an exciting chapter in his club career.
What's also worth looking forward to, is his partnership with Jude Bellingham. Having operated mainly as the attacking midfielder, the Englishman is likely to play behind Mbappe, who could start as their striker.
In such a case, the players could be seen linking up more often than not, with Bellingham creating opportunities for Mbappe to score. Given their talents, they could end up being one of the most fearsome attacking duos next season.