Kylian Mbappé has expressed his preference for Real Madrid to face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League round of 16, following Madrid’s 3-1 victory over Manchester City on Wednesday night.
Mbappé, who scored a hat-trick in the second-leg clash, helped Madrid secure a 6-3 aggregate win to book their spot in the next round. With the draw scheduled for Friday, there is a possibility of a Madrid derby in the knockout stage.
Mbappé’s Thoughts on the Next Opponent
After receiving his Player of the Match award, Mbappé told Metro:
“I have always said I didn’t come here simply to complete a dream. I want to play well, I want to mark an era.”
“If I can score 50 goals, I will; if I can score more, I will. But I’ve often scored lots of goals in my career and not won trophies. If I can score and lift trophies, let me sign up for that right now.”
Speaking about Madrid’s potential opponents, he added:
“Honestly, I would rather we are drawn against Atleti. They and Bayern are two great clubs, and it would be difficult either way. But in the next round, it would be much better for us if we don’t have to travel – we travel so much!”
“Bayer Leverkusen or Atleti next? Both difficult, but I prefer Atleti, so we save ourselves a trip!”
Madrid vs. Atletico in the Champions League
If the draw pairs Real Madrid with Atletico Madrid, it will mark their 10th Champions League meeting. Madrid holds the upper hand, having won five of the previous nine encounters, including two finals in 2013-14 and 2015-16.
However, recent history in La Liga suggests a close contest. The last three league meetings between the two sides have all ended 1-1, including their February 2025 clash at the Bernabéu. Atletico are currently unbeaten in their last five league games against Madrid, with four of those matches ending in draws.
As Friday’s draw approaches, all eyes will be on whether Mbappé gets his wish for an all-Madrid showdown in the Champions League round of 16.
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