La Liga
Kylian Mbappe Joins Long List Of Real Madrid Galacticos
On Monday, Real Madrid delighted their fans by finally announcing the signing of their newest ‘Galactico’, Kylian Mbappe.
World Cup champion and French sensation Kylian Mbappe now joins the ranks of ‘Galacticos’ acquired by Florentino Perez, the Real Madrid president. Having hinted at his ambitions a year ago, Perez delighted fans by officially confirming the signing of the former PSG forward on Monday afternoon after much anticipation.
Despite not paying a transfer fee to PSG, Real Madrid compensated by securing Kylian Mbappe’s image rights and salary, ensuring a lucrative deal. In a shift towards austerity in recent years, Los Merengues strategically maneuvered to bring in the French star. With Mbappe now part of the squad, Real Madrid boasts a star-packed lineup across all positions on the pitch, leaving no room for doubt.
The Galacticos:
Luis Figo (2000 – €60 million euros)
Luis Figo’s acquisition marked the start of Florentino Perez’s presidency at Real Madrid. The Portuguese, previously a player for Barcelona, made a contentious move to join Real Madrid, where he quickly captured the hearts of the club’s supporters. Figo’s arrival paved the way for the era of ‘Galacticos’.
Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo subsequently joined Real Madrid, marking a glorious period in Spanish football.
Zinedine Zidane (2001 – €77 million)
The groundwork for Zidane’s transfer was laid during a meeting where he sat down with Perez. On a napkin, the president posed the question if he wanted to play for Madrid, to which the Frenchman responded with a simple ‘Oui’. Negotiations intensified and the deal was finalized for 77 million euros.
Ronaldo Nazario (2002 – €45 million)
Following his resurgence with Inter Milan and a World Cup triumph with Brazil in 2002, Ronaldo Nazario emerged as Real Madrid’s third Galactico. His transfer to the club cost 45 million euros. In 177 matches played, he netted 103 goals and contributed 35 assists. Ronaldo secured two La Liga titles and a Spanish Super Cup during his time with Real Madrid.
David Beckham (2003 – €35 million)
Following a successful tenure at Manchester United, the Englishman made his way to the Bernabeu. Before joining Real Madrid, his representatives engaged in negotiations with Barcelona without his knowledge. Ultimately, Beckham turned down Laporta’s offer, leading the Barcelona president to secure the signature of Ronaldinho from PSG.
Kaka (2009 – €65 million)
The most recent Brazilian Ballon d’Or winner, who led AC Milan to triumph in the UEFA Champions League against Liverpool following a memorable season, struggled to make an impact at the Bernabeu due to injuries. Kaka faced challenges in finding consistency at Real Madrid. Nonetheless, he clinched La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup during his time with the club.
Cristiano Ronaldo (2009 – €94 million)
The Portuguese footballer departed Manchester United to establish himself as a pivotal player at Real Madrid. At Real Madrid, he set records as the all-time leading goal scorer for the club and in the history of the Champions League.
He also achieved the remarkable feat of being the top scorer in the Champions League for six consecutive seasons from 2012 to 2018. During his time at Real Madrid, Ronaldo secured four Champions League titles, two La Liga championships, two Copas del Rey, two UEFA Super Cups, and three Club World Cups.
In 2018, he made a groundbreaking move to Juventus in a transfer deal initially valued at €100 million (£88 million), setting a new benchmark as the most expensive transfer for both an Italian club and a player over the age of 30.
Gareth Bale (2013 – €100 million)
The Welshman made significant impacts by scoring memorable goals in the Champions League finals held in Lisbon, Milan, and Kyiv, playing a key role in Zidane’s successful campaign for three Champions League titles.
Despite his vital contributions, his departure from Real Madrid was met with some complexity. Following a loan spell at Tottenham for a year, he triumphantly returned to Madrid and played a pivotal role in securing another Champions League victory under Carlo Ancelotti.
Eden Hazard (2019 – €100 million)
One of Perez’s risky moves that ultimately did not work out. The Belgian player, who had excelled at Chelsea, arrived at Real Madrid amidst high hopes and anticipation.
Unfortunately, a combination of injuries, underwhelming displays, and fitness issues resulted in his limited appearances for the club. He eventually left Real Madrid in June 2023 and announced his retirement from professional football just four months later.
Jude Bellingham (2022 – €103 million)
In 2022, Real Madrid signed a British player who excelled in both the Champions League and La Liga. He quickly adapted to the team’s demands and made a significant impact, becoming the top scorer in his first season. His contributions were instrumental in the club’s league triumph, and he has emerged as a serious candidate for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.
