Mbappe Shatters Another Record, Surpasses Suarez Legend But Ronaldo's Crown Remains Out of Reach

Kylian Mbappé has achieved the second-fastest milestone to 50 La Liga goals in the 21st century this Saturday, surpassing former Barcelona forward Luis Suárez's record while remaining behind Cristiano Ronaldo's pace.

An unwelcoming atmosphere at the Bernabéu saw Real Madrid's squad face continuous jeers from supporters—a reaction stemming from their surprising midweek Copa del Rey elimination by Albacete and recent displays under former coach Xabi Alonso—yet the 15-time European champions secured victory over Levante following Mbappé's penalty conversion to open the scoring.

Following his Real Madrid arrival in summer 2024, Mbappé has consistently delivered lethal finishing performances. His strike against Levante represented his 50th goal across 53 La Liga matches, with only childhood hero and Madrid icon Ronaldo achieving this feat more quickly this century, reaching the mark two games earlier than Mbappé.

However, the French striker has surpassed several of La Liga's most prolific scorers, including Suárez, Radamel Falcao, Robert Lewandowski and Neymar Jr.

Mbappé claimed the Pichichi Trophy during his debut Madrid campaign with 31 league strikes, and appears set to defend his title after netting his 19th goal of the 2025–26 season. This tally places him five goals ahead of Mallorca's Vedat Muriqi, eight clear of Barcelona's Ferran Torres and ten ahead of teammate Lewandowski.

Fastest Players to Score 50 La Liga Goals This Century

Fastest Players to Score 50 La Liga Goals This Century

Arbeloa Praises Mbappe and Reveals Welcome Gift

Arbeloa Praises Mbappe and Reveals Welcome Gift

A persistent knee problem has affected Mbappé throughout the past month. Nevertheless, the French star completed Real Madrid's full La Liga match under new manager Arbeloa, achieving his historic milestone while spearheading Los Blancos' return to winning ways.

Following the encounter, Mbappé's new manager expressed admiration for his display, talent and leadership qualities, with Arbeloa also disclosing the welcoming gesture Mbappé offered during his initial training session under the new coach's guidance.

"I'm grateful," Arbeloa stated. "We understand he's [Mbappé] dealing with that knee problem and that most others facing such circumstances would have stepped aside. Yet Kylian has demonstrated to me over two days that he's a genuine leader.

"His opening move was to nutmeg me during a rondo as his way of welcoming me, which was perfectly fine. Being able to coach a player of his caliber, someone capable of netting 60 goals per season, witnessing him perform, practice, the skills he possesses with the ball ... it's an experience I'll cherish forever.

"He's an exceptional individual, a born leader, and hopefully his knee remains stable because his presence is crucial. He clearly influences every match, and having him on the field brings me joy."

Real Madrid return to competition on Tuesday in the Champions League, where Mbappé will look to extend his scoring streak against childhood team AS Monaco.