Mbappé named Real Madrid's August Player of the Month ahead of Bellingham

Kylian Mbappé won the first round of his rivalry with Jude Bellingham by being crowned Real Madrid’s player of the month for August. The French striker, who scored a hat-trick against Real Sociedad and a goal against Malaga, immediately confirms his status after his 42 goals in 44 matches last season, which had already earned him the club’s best player award in May.

Yet among Real Madrid supporters, it is Bellingham who commands greater consensus. The English midfielder made an impact over the first three La Liga matchdays with a goal against Espanyol, two assists against Real Sociedad and another goal against Malaga. His influence on the game, beyond offensive statistics alone, earns him the preference of a large section of the Bernabéu crowd.

Behind this duo, Vinicius Jr occupies a more subdued role. The Brazilian confines himself to his left flank without seeking to multiply attempts: just one shot against Espanyol, two against Malaga. Coach José Mourinho has also experimented with Arda Güler and Brahim Díaz in the right-wing position, while awaiting the rise of Yan Diomandé, signed for 125 million euros excluding bonuses.

Real Madrid, already credited with ten goals in four La Liga matchdays, will travel to Real Betis on Friday evening before beginning their Ligue des Champions campaign next Tuesday with the reception of Inter Milan at the Bernabéu. This double fixture will constitute a first real test of the offensive hierarchy established by Mourinho.