Kylian Mbappe
PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 23: Kylian Mbappe of France runs with the ball during the international friendly match between France and Colombia at Stade de France on March 23, 2018 in Paris, France. (Photo by Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images)
At only 20 years old, Kylian Mbappe has become a household name among soccer fans around the world. Known for his lightning pace and mesmerizing footwork, he is both a versatile goal scorer and intelligent playmaker. He currently plays at the club Paris Saint-Germain and has helped them win back-to-back Ligue 1 titles. In 2018, he was the subject of the second most expensive transfer in soccer history of €180 million. His biggest rise to fame, however, was his role in the French National Team that won the 2018 World Cup. He scored four goals, including one in the final. He became the youngest French player to score in a World Cup and was named Best Young Player of the tournament.
Mbappe wasn’t always in the spotlight, however. He grew up in Paris with his Algerian mother and Cameroonian father both of whom were athletes. Even at a young age, it seemed as though he was destined to be a great footballer. He was immensely dedicated to his training, saying: “I did not have the moments of so-called normal people during adolescence, like going out with friends, enjoying good times.” At six year old his was playing at AS Bondy, coached by his father. Ten years later, he made his professional debut for AS Monaco.
Today he is recognized as one of the best players in the world. Mbappe’s career has only just begun and we are excited to see what is still in store for this young superstar.
Ian Shen-Costello
Project RACE Teens Vice-President
Image source: https://ronaldo.com/football-news/mbappe-about-to-fulfill-his-childhood-dream/