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Could Thierry Henry's future lie at Real Madrid? And all for Mbappé

The French star reportedly looks to Zidane for mentorship as discussions arise over Thierry Henry as an alternative advisor.

By Sebastián Hernadez

Photo: social networks of Thierry Henry and Mbappé.
Photo: social networks of Thierry Henry and Mbappé.
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Real Madrid faces a challenging December with key player Vinícius Jr. sidelined by injury. All eyes are now on Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham to lead the team. While the English midfielder has stepped up recently, Mbappé is reportedly working to regain his peak form, with intriguing reports suggesting he has reached out to Zinédine Zidane for guidance.

According to SPORT, Mbappé has sought Zidane’s advice on adapting to Real Madrid's unique environment and demands. This approach mirrors the path taken by Karim Benzema during his early days at the club, where Zidane played a crucial role in shaping his success.

Thierry Henry Enters the Conversation

However, not everyone agrees that Zidane is the best mentor for Mbappé. French commentator and former player Kévin Díaz suggested an alternative on Radio Monte Carlo: Thierry Henry. He believes Henry’s career trajectory aligns closely with Mbappé’s and offers valuable lessons.

“Henry shares similar characteristics: speed, intelligence, and development at Clairefontaine,” Díaz explained. He highlighted how Henry adapted from playing on the left wing to becoming a central striker, a transition Mbappé is also navigating.

Henry’s experiences with clubs like Arsenal and Barcelona further underscore his potential as a mentor. Díaz noted how Henry left Arsenal, his beloved club, to embrace a collective role at Barcelona, eventually excelling in a team-oriented system.

Learning from Football Legends

Mbappé’s reported conversations with Zidane are seen as a step to align with Real Madrid’s demanding culture. Zidane’s expertise, both as a former player and coach, provides insight into thriving under the club’s spotlight.

On the other hand, Díaz argues that Henry’s ability to reinvent himself in various environments offers equally valuable lessons. From leading Arsenal to adapting to Barcelona's star-studded lineup, Henry's career is a blueprint for handling transitions and maintaining high performance at elite clubs.

  • Real Madrid’s December Challenges: With Vinícius Jr. injured, Mbappé and Bellingham are expected to lead the team.
  • Mentorship from Zidane: Mbappé reportedly sought advice from Zidane, following Benzema’s example in earlier years.
  • Thierry Henry as an Alternative: Commentator Kévin Díaz proposed Henry as a better mentor, given his similar career path and ability to adapt.
  • Lessons from Henry: Díaz highlighted Henry’s journey from Arsenal to Barcelona and his reinvention as a team player.
  • Focus on Leadership: Mbappé is under pressure to lead Real Madrid, with guidance from football legends potentially shaping his role.

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