"Real Madrid are ahead of everybody else" - Journalist explains why players like Mbappe and Bellingham chose to move to Los Blancos
Spanish journalist Guillem Balague has suggested that the prestige of playing for Real Madrid draws players like Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe to the Santiago Bernabeu. Los Blancos are inarguably among the greatest clubs in the world.
With a rich history and a pedigree of success like few other, the reigning La Liga champions have been home to some of the biggest names in football over the years. Despite the rise of the Premier League and billionaire club owners, Real Madrid have held their own and remain a commanding presence in the transfer market.
Jude Bellingham was heavily courted by clubs from England last summer following an explosive stint with Borussia Dortmund. However, the player apparently turned down lucrative offers from the UK to complete his dream move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Kylian Mbappe's story isn't too dissimilar. The French Superstar could have earned a lot more had he agreed to stay with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). A move to the Middle East would also have made him one of the richest players in the world.
However, he apparently had his heart set on joining the La Liga champions, who had been hot on his heels for ages. After two failed attempts, the move finally materialized this summer, with the 25-year-old arriving at the club as a free agent.
Speaking to Four Four Two, Balague insisted that Los Blancos remain the biggest draw in world football right now.
"Prestige. We’ve seen again and again that when it comes to prestige, Real Madrid are ahead of everybody else. Mbappe, Endrick, Bellingham and other stars could have gone anywhere and could have earned more money elsewhere," said Balague.
He continued:
"However, the white shirt, the history, and the ambition of Real Madrid are things no other club can compete with. They’re still the biggest draw."
Both players are key to Carlo Ancelotti's plans at the Santiago Bernabeu right now.
Can Bellingham and Mbappe power Real Madrid to success?
Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham have already helped Real Madrid win the UEFA Super Cup this season. The Englishman enjoyed an explosive start to life with the La Liga champions last campaign, registering 23 goals and 13 assists from 42 games across competitions.
However, he hasn't been in his element this season and is currently out injured. Interestingly, Mbappe's arrival could have an impact on the 21-year-old's form as he could be forced to alter his style of play. However, it is too soon to draw a conclusion.
The French superstar, meanwhile, has enjoyed a mixed start to life with Los Blancos, scoring four goals from six games so far. He is yet to show glimpses of the player who lit up Parc des Princes in recent seasons. Real Madrid will be hoping that Bellingham's return from injury will help the former PSG man get back to his best.