Kylian Mbappé has been issued a clear ultimatum ahead of Real Madrid’s crucial Champions League showdown against Manchester City.
Former Liverpool and Real Madrid player Steve McManaman believes that Mbappé must deliver a standout performance if he hopes to win the Ballon d’Or for the first time. The match, which will determine which team advances to the Last 16 of the Champions League, is pivotal not only for both clubs but also for individual players seeking personal accolades.
Both Real Madrid and Manchester City failed to secure top-eight spots in this season’s revamped Champions League format, meaning one of these football giants will be eliminated in the play-offs. McManaman emphasized that Mbappé needs to excel in big games like this if he wants to claim the Ballon d’Or.
“Everything is on the line for both [teams], and individually, everything’s on the line for the players as well,” he noted.
“If you want personal titles, if you’re Kylian Mbappé and you want to be a Ballon d’Or winner in your first year at Madrid, they’re going to need to win [the Champions League].”
Manchester City faces its own challenges after a disappointing Champions League campaign so far. However, they may have an advantage due to Real Madrid’s defensive crisis and numerous absentees from their lineup. This could provide Erling Haaland with opportunities against inexperienced defenders.
For both teams, success in this tie is crucial not just for advancing but also as part of broader ambitions—Real Madrid seeking back-to-back La Liga titles and Manchester City aiming for redemption after a lackluster Premier League campaign by winning another European title.