Luka Modric’s legacy, Kylian Mbappe’s mission: France star’s important five-word message rocks Real Madrid ahead of new season
Just days before Real Madrid kicks off the 2025-26 campaign, Kylian Mbappe has ignited excitement and expectation among fans with a powerful show of intent. Now wearing Luka Modric’s iconic No. 10 shirt, the French superstar enters his second season in Madrid with renewed energy, fierce ambition, and an unmistakable sense of responsibility. The gesture, accompanied by a clear message on social media, signals that Mbappe is not only ready to lead — he’s hungry to deliver.
Real Madrid‘s preseason began on Monday, August 4, with the players returning to Valdebebas under the watchful eye of new coach Xabi Alonso. After a previous campaign that saw Los Blancos finish without a major trophy, the pressure is on to re-establish the club’s domestic and European dominance. Barcelona won La Liga, and Arsenal knocked the Whites out of the Champions League quarterfinals — a disappointing conclusion for a squad loaded with elite talent, including the marquee signing of Mbappe.
Now, with Alonso replacing Carlo Ancelotti at the helm, Los Blancos begin a new chapter. The season officially kicks off on August 19 against Osasuna, with one final friendly against WSG Tirol in Austria scheduled for August 12. The transition is expected to be swift and demanding.
The message that set the tone
Amid the high-stakes build-up to the new season, Mbappe took to Instagram to fire out a motivational message to fans. While his post may have seemed like a routine preseason update, five words stood out and sent a ripple through the Madrid fanbase: “New season. Hungry to do something great. Let’s go all together, Madridistas! Hala Madrid!”
The phrase “hungry to do something great” wasn’t just a cliche — it was a mission statement from a player who has assumed Luka Modric’s legendary No. 10 shirt. A shirt that once symbolized grace, brilliance, and leadership now belongs to a man who was once hailed as the future of football. At 26, Mbappe is no longer just the future — he is the present, and Madrid is now his team.
From setback to comeback
Mbappe’s hunger stems from more than just ambition — it’s rooted in personal disappointment. Last season, the French forward missed the Club World Cup due to a bout of gastroenteritis, which led to a significant weight loss of nearly five kilograms. Despite scoring and assisting throughout the season, he was unable to lead Madrid to a title, prompting criticism and self-reflection.
Now fully recovered, the Frenchman has returned to training ahead of schedule, showing no signs of lingering effects from his illness. His fitness and mindset appear razor-sharp as Madrid prepares to take on Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu to begin its new La Liga campaign.