Mbappé Makes Bold Carlos Espí Prediction and Explains Why Vinicius and Bellingham Are So Different

Kylian Mbappé has opened up about his Real Madrid teammates, explaining why there is no simple answer when it comes to his understanding with Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham.

In his first interview with a Spanish sports newspaper since joining Real Madrid, Mbappé spoke to AS about life at the club, José Mourinho and several of his teammates.

One of the most interesting moments came when he was asked whether he has a better understanding with Vinicius or Bellingham.

Mbappé refused to pick one.

“They are very different. On the pitch, they do completely different things,” the Frenchman explained.

According to Mbappé, his connection with each player depends on the situation and the characteristics required during a particular move.

“There are aspects of the game where it is better with Jude, others with Vini, or with Güler, Brahim, Diomande, Espí…”

Rather than viewing one partnership as better than another, Mbappé believes Real Madrid’s attacking strength comes from having players with very different qualities.

Bellingham can make powerful runs through the middle and arrive in dangerous areas, while Vinicius provides pace, dribbling and the ability to attack space from the left.

Mbappé also highlighted Arda Güler, Brahim Díaz and Diomande as players who can contribute in different ways.

Mbappé predicts big things for Carlos Espí

However, one name in particular caught attention: Carlos Espí.

Mbappé believes the young forward has a natural instinct for finding the net and could score a significant number of goals this season.

“Espí is going to score many goals this season. He has a connection with the goal,” Mbappé said.

The Frenchman recently demonstrated his confidence in Espí during Real Madrid’s victory over Elche. Mbappé provided the assist for the young striker, choosing to pass rather than attempt to finish the opportunity himself.

He explained that he could have gone for goal but spotted Espí in a better position and believed the pass gave Madrid the best chance of securing the result.

That level of trust is significant for a young forward who is still competing for minutes alongside some of the biggest attacking names in world football.

Mbappé also praises Mourinho

Mbappé also had plenty to say about José Mourinho, describing the Real Madrid manager in glowing terms.

“Mou is special. He is one of the smartest people I have ever met. He is a leader,” Mbappé said.

The Frenchman believes working with Mourinho every day has given him an even greater appreciation of the Portuguese coach’s qualities and reputation.

Mbappé also reiterated his commitment to Real Madrid, saying that he never needed convincing to join the club because playing for Madrid had always been an obvious ambition.

And while Barcelona have made a strong start to the season, Mbappé insisted there is no reason for Madrid to be concerned yet.

“Good for them. They have won matches, but it is the beginning of the season,” he said.

For now, Mbappé’s focus is on helping Real Madrid reach their best level — while one of his youngest teammates has already received a major vote of confidence from the club’s biggest star.