Both stars of Real Madrid, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé attract massive crowds at every match. So, who is truly the favourite player among football fans in Spain or La Liga? We’ve attempted to answer this question that many have been asking.
At the peak of their game for years, Vinicius and Mbappé are now united in the greatest club in the world. Arriving at a very young age in the Spanish capital, the Brazilian prodigy paved his way to glory through immense effort and hard work. Despite a tough start, marked by waves of criticism and mockery over his ability to succeed at Real Madrid, Vini did not give up. While he has silenced the doubters with his on-field brilliance for more than three years, French star Kylian Mbappé has now followed in his footsteps to Spain.
Having built his reputation as the best player in France, notably in Ligue 1 where he spent eight years as a professional, Real Madrid’s new No. 9 also spent some time in the Merengues’ academy during his childhood. Welcomed with great fanfare at the Santiago Bernabéu last summer during his unveiling, Kylian Mbappé also endured some tense moments before finding a reprieve since December. Both regarded as the leaders of Real Madrid’s project, the two forwards hold a special place in the hearts of Madrid supporters and even some rivals.
But who is truly the most loved between Vinicius and Mbappé?
As mentioned earlier, Vinicius Junior, who has been in Madrid since 2018, remains a key figure in the hearts of fans and the club’s management. Now considered the best player in the world thanks to his performances, the 24-year-old star continues to electrify crowds in every stadium he visits. However, since Kylian Mbappé’s arrival in Spain, the excitement around the Brazilian has somewhat diminished. Already criticised for his fiery temperament, which has attracted a lot of scrutiny, the former Santos player has undeniably lost the affection of many football fans in Spain.
While he remains highly appreciated by Real Madrid supporters, the player receiving the most attention in recent months is Kylian Mbappé, who has built a stellar reputation. At 26, the French forward is the undisputed star of La Liga. Always careful with his communication and reactions, KM9 didn’t take long to win over all Madridistas. Be it the press, the management, or the fans, everyone agrees unanimously.
Mbappé: The most sought-after player outside Madrid
Mbappé’s true popularity can be measured during the team’s away matches. While players often face hostile receptions when playing away from home, the Bondy native is consistently greeted with cheers. Rarely involved in provocations with fans or heated disputes with referees, Kylian Mbappé excels at winning everyone over.
Todos los jugadores del Minera querían hacerse la foto con Kylian Mbappé ❤️🩹👏🏻👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/Vmdq6S4oLm
— REAL MADRID FANS 🤍 (@AdriRM33) January 6, 2025
This Monday, against Minera in the Copa del Rey, the number of opposing players surrounding him after the match to take photos and request souvenirs spoke volumes about the French star’s popularity in Spain. Since his arrival in Madrid, KM9 has been the club’s top jersey seller. Today, with the recent controversies surrounding Vinicius Junior, who again caused a stir in Valencia, earning him widespread criticism, Mbappé has gained far more admiration from Madridistas and other football fans across Spain, thanks to his composure and extraordinary skills on the pitch.
